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[Boston Celtics]

Celtics sign Miles Norris to two-way contract

Photo by Dave Eggen/NBAE via Getty Images

The standout forward provides some size and shooting to fill out Boston’s last two-way slot.

Earlier today, the Boston Celtics announced that they waived Anton Watson, their second-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. In doing so, they cleared up a two-way contract slot, which they are now using to sign Miles Norris. Norris is a 6’7”, 24-year-old forward who was most recently playing in the G-League for the Memphis Hustle.

The Boston Celtics are signing forward Miles Norris to a two-way NBA deal out of the NBA G League's Memphis Hustle, agents Mike Silverman and Troy Payne of Equity Basketball tell ESPN. Norris has averaged 17.1 points and 5 rebounds in G League.

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 3, 2025

While in college, Miles played for the Oregon Ducks and was a teammate of Payton Pritchard’s when they won the National Championship in the 2018-2019 season. Norris went undrafted in 2023, signing a two-way contract with the Atlanta Hawks. He never made his NBA debut, and was waived by Atlanta in December 2023, signing on to their G-League affiliate, the College Park Skyhawks, for the remainder of the season. He signed with the Memphis Grizzlies just before the current season, and was waived just three days later with the intention of having him play for their G-League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle.

In his first year in the G-League, Miles averaged 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 30.4 minutes per game (MPG). He did so while shooting 45.5% from the floor, 38.3% from three-point range, and 77.8% from the free-throw line. In his current season, he’s taken a step up, now averaging 17.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists with just a 0.2 MPG increase. He’s also raised his shooting splits, now with a field goal percentage of 45.9%, a three-point percentage of 39.5%, and a free-throw percentage of 86.4%.

Enjoy some Miles Norris highlights pic.twitter.com/j5K1vSvINe

— Ian Inangelo (@iinangelo) March 3, 2025

By signing Norris to a two-way contract, he is now eligible to play in all 21 of the Boston Celtics remaining regular season games. However, he will not be able to join them in the playoffs, as two-way players are ineligible. With the end of the season closing in, the Celtics regulars are bound to see more rest days pop up to keep them healthy for the post-season. That could provide Miles with a path to his first NBA minutes, though he’ll likely spend most of his time in Maine.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...ston-maine-memphis-hustle-brad-stevens-oregon

 

[Boston Celtics]

10 takeaways from a stifling defensive win over Jokic and the Nuggets

Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images

The Celtics took inspiration from the Lakers’ game plan, making life difficult for Nikola Jokic and forcing the Nuggets into an uncomfortable offensive rhythm. Al Horford anchored a disciplined defensive effort, while Jaylen Brown attacked mismatches to keep Boston in control.

#1 - Celtics using the Lakers blueprint​

On February 22nd, the Lakers found a way to disrupt the Denver Nuggets’ offensive flow around Jokic despite their lack of size. They did so by limiting his touches in the paint. Since Jokic is the most efficient player within the two-point area, the further he receives the ball, the better. Therefore, like the Lakers, the Celtics put in a lot of effort to make it as difficult as possible for him to get the ball.

For @celticsblog I asked Joe Mazzulla his thoughts on JJ Reddick defensive game plan for the Lakers against the Nuggets last week.

He said it was a great game plan and there is things to pick out of it — but also that there is no real answers to Nikola Jokic.

Full answers: pic.twitter.com/yqIHsQt0GO

— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 2, 2025​

Once Jokic had the ball, the Celtics sent multiple players to him, ensuring layups were impossible and driving lanes were closed. Since the Nuggets surrounded Nikola Jokic with athletic players who aren’t reliable shooters, the Celtics wanted to make sure there were no drives and no cuts to the rim.

Instead, the Celtics were willing to give up threes—even open threes. Against Boston, the Denver Nuggets attempted more three-pointers than usual (40% three-point frequency in Boston vs. 30% season average). On the other end, the Celtics closed the paint so well that Denver attempted only 22% of their shots at the rim (compared to 38% on average this season).

Overall, the Denver Nuggets were limited to 111 points per 100 possessions, far below their season average of 121. If you want to dig deeper, Adam Taylor did a full breakdown on the Celtics defense in his latest.

#2 - Al Horford’s defensive masterpiece​

To slow down the Denver Nuggets, the Celtics needed a defensive anchor to build their wall around—and that was Al Horford. The veteran was the secret ingredient that solidified the defense.

The Celtics executed a smart game plan to disrupt Nuggets usual offensive flow.

For that game plan to work, the Celtics needed a defensive anchor… and it was Al Horford.

I asked Joe Mazzulla about Horford defensive impact for the @celticsblog. Full answer in the video below: https://t.co/ZS0KP8ozuB

— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 2, 2025​

When matched up with Jokic, Horford did a great job slowing him down and forcing him into tough positions. Jokic is one of the best players at making difficult shots, but Horford found a way to defend him well without fouling.

Off the ball, Horford was active on the back end of the defense, disrupting passing lanes. Against Jokic, it’s essential to interrupt off-ball movement and limit his passing options, as he can find an open player from any position.

On top of contesting shots, grabbing three steals, and creating transition opportunities through rebounding, Horford was able to switch onto smaller players. Of course, he got scored on at times, but he consistently forced contested shots.

#3 - Jaylen Brown hunting Jamal Murray​

Another game, another defensive target for the Celtics. This time, the green army went after Jamal Murray. While Murray isn’t the smallest player on the court, forcing him into defensive actions drains his energy, which impacts his offense. Jaylen Brown relentlessly attacked him, creating drives and forcing him to defend on the ball.

Despite dealing with knee discomfort, Jaylen Brown dominated the matchup, scoring 22 points and generating nine free-throw attempts—a strong mark for him. His improved post-up game has been a key asset this season, allowing him to turn his back to the basket and overpower defenders in such situations.

As Brown mentioned in the press conference, he was short on a few shots, but overall, he put Jamal Murray in a tough position. However, it was also noticeable that Denver was willing to leave Murray on an island rather than send help, which directly impacted the Celtics’ shooting balance.

#4 - Celtics’ three-point volume​

The Denver Nuggets did a great job limiting the Celtics’ three-point attempts. Despite missing Aaron Gordon and being built around a non-traditional big man, the Nuggets excel at closing gaps and forcing Boston into more mid-range shots than usual.

As Jaylen Brown noted, some teams prefer to “stay home” and avoid bringing an extra defender to help—even if there’s a mismatch. This often turns a mismatch into a post-up or a contested drive rather than an open shot created from a pass out of double coverage.

Because teams aren’t sending extra defenders to stop the Celtics’ best scorers, it’s harder to find open three-pointers. This raises an important question with no definitive answer—what’s the better strategy? Living with three-pointers or accepting constant one-on-one punishment? Time will tell what opposing teams are willing to concede against the Celtics.

#5 - Luke Kornet as a connector​

Nonetheless, the Denver Nuggets occasionally left space open, and Luke Kornet took advantage. Kornet is what we like to call a connector—a player who may not create gaps himself but is adept at maintaining offensive flow once he gets the ball. A great example:

When he received the ball on the short roll, he faced a four-on-three situation—created by Jayson Tatum’s gravity in the pick-and-roll. Four defenders against three offensive players means someone is open, and a good connector finds that player. A great connector finds him quickly and in an ideal position. In the example above, the ball moved swiftly to Horford, who was positioned under the basket.

Luke Kornet in a 5-slot offense has been quite fun to watch this year.

A great example how a player can help the offensive flow in space even if he doesn't shot threes.

Spacing ≠ Shooting. pic.twitter.com/bicCMkZilV

— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 3, 2025​

In the next example, Kornet started the action in the slot—despite not being a three-point shooter. However, because he is a great connector, he exploited the gap created by Payton Pritchard, flowing into a handoff with Hauser. This movement triggered a reaction from the low man, freeing up Horford under the basket once again. Kornet found him immediately.

#6 - Kornet on Westbrook​

However, Kornet’s impact extended beyond offense. Once again, he was assigned to a point guard with no shooting threat—this time Russell Westbrook—and once again, the strategy worked well. Of course, this approach depends on whether the ignored player makes the Celtics pay.

Yet, the goal is to live with variance and protect the paint at all costs, as mentioned earlier in this article. Kornet’s ability to control space with his size, length, and positional awareness is crucial to Joe Mazzulla’s creative defensive schemes. Once again, Mazzulla showed he’s more than just an offensive mastermind—he can construct elite defensive strategies as well.

#7 - Transition defense​

Speaking of defense, it’s important to note that Boston’s transition defense was on point despite Denver recording 11 steals. The Nuggets managed only 89 points per 100 possessions in transition, an impressively low mark given how efficient transition offense is supposed to be.

Throughout most of the game, the Celtics were disciplined defensively—well, almost the whole game.

#8 - Denver’s late third-quarter run​

The Celtics once again flirted with allowing a comeback, mirroring their slow finish to the first half. This stretch was a great example of how difficult it is to defend the Nuggets, the second-best offense in the NBA this season. In the final minutes of the third quarter, Boston allowed Denver to return to their usual actions featuring Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic.

In just a few minutes, the Celtics’ lead disappeared, and Denver clawed their way back before the final quarter. However, this time, Boston didn’t let another comeback happen. They entered the fourth quarter focused, shutting down Denver’s hopes.

#9 - Pick-and-roll struggles​

I’ve been vocal about how much the Celtics need to rely on Jayson Tatum’s pick-and-rolls to generate offense. However, this game wasn’t the best example. Tatum lost the ball five times in pick-and-roll situations. Mike Malone’s game plan was to apply pressure with hedge coverage, sending two defenders at Tatum after he used the screen:

Even though he struggled with turnovers and scoring from these actions, he still created for his teammates. In the example below, a staggered ball screen pulled three defenders onto him, freeing up Derrick White in the corner. As soon as White was open, Tatum found him for a three-pointer.

Even on an off night, this simple action remained effective.

#10 - First win against Jokic since 2022​

Even though Joe Mazzulla said he didn’t mention Jokic in the game plan, it must feel good for the team and coaching staff to finally beat the best player in the league.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...la-jokic-joe-mazzulla-jaylen-brown-al-horford

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/3/25

Jaylen Brown vs Nuggets 3/2/25 | Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

All the Celtics news you need in one convenient place.

Herald Celtics’ Jrue Holiday opens up about injury, unsure of return timeline: ‘They just told me that I broke my finger’​

Celtics snap skid with 110-103 win over Nikola Jokic, Nuggets​

Celtics reportedly add player on two-way contract after waiving rookie​

Inside Al Horford’s ‘elite’ performance vs. Nikola Jokic in Celtics’ win over Nuggets​

Globe Derrick White’s late heroics lead Celtics over Nuggets: 8 takeaways​

At age 38, Al Horford still relishes opportunity to guard NBA’s best​

Celtics’ Jamal Murray strategy is ‘sign of disrespect’, coach says​

When 3-pointers are limited, Celtics need to work the inside game to win​

Al Horford raises compete level, Celtics respond to hold off Nuggets​

Jrue Holiday injury: Celtics star on ‘frustrating’ finger​

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side - Nuggets 3/2/25 ​

CelticsBlog Derrick White’s big afternoon helps Celtics prevail over Nuggets​

Celtics sign Miles Norris to two-way contract ​

Celtics-Nuggets notebook: Jaylen Brown rewards Al Horford’s efforts, Payton Pritchard keeps his promise, Neemias Queta shines​

A vintage Al Horford performance​

Jaylen Brown is finding his groove ​

10 takeaways from a stifling defensive win over Jokic and the Nuggets​

CLNS Media Jrue Holiday Will Avoid Surgery and Play Through Mallet Finger Injury ​

Al Horford Senses When to Step Up and is Still an Edge for Celtics vs. Nuggets ​

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 110, Nuggets 103 ​

Al Horford Helps Set the Tone and Close the Door in Win Over Denver​

NBC Sports Boston Jayson Tatum owns lofty place in NBA history on 27th birthday​

Celtics-Nuggets recap: Derrick White, Al Horford come up clutch in bounce-back win​

Joe Mazzulla reflects on Celtics City docuseries, ‘amazing perspective’ it provided ​

CBS Boston Ageless Al Horford put up vintage performance for Celtics against Jokic, Nuggets ​

As Jayson Tatum celebrates 27th birthday, it’s clear he’s become a face of the NBA ​

NESN Joe Mazzulla Makes Admission About Celtics Game Plan In Win Over Nuggets​

Three Studs, Three Duds From Celtics Holding Off Nuggets To End Skid​

Jaylen Brown Cracks Joke After Celtics Veteran Passes Up Dunk​

Celtics Rumors: Boston Adds Wing After Making Unexpected Cut​

Ex-Celtics Guard Inks Multi-Year Deal With Danny Ainge-Led Team​

Mass Live 4 takeaways as Boston Celtics beat Nuggets after nearly blowing big lead​

Boston Celtics waive two-way rookie before key deadline ​

Boston Celtics regain crucial edge in Nuggets win that went missing ​

Boston Celtics sign Miles Norris to two-way contract after surprise cut​

Joe Mazzulla describes unique gameplan for Nikola Jokic after Nuggets win ​

Boston Celtics fans, appreciate Al Horford while you still can​

Who is Miles Norris? 3 things to know about newest Boston Celtics forward​

Celtics Wire Shams: Celtics to sign G League forward Miles Norris to two way deal​

Joe Mazzulla praises Neemias Queta for shining in limited action​

What sets Celtics City apart from so many other Celtics documentaries?​

Celtics history: McHale gets 56; Cassell signed; Tatum, Walsh born​

It’s fair to compare Celtics star Jayson Tatum to Nugs’ Nikola Jokic​

Celtics vet Jrue Holiday has mallet finger; should fans worry?​

Celtics jersey history No. 12 - Tayshaun Prince (2015)​

Celtics star Jayson Tatum appears in new Amica ad with mom Brandy Cole​

Jaylen Brown believes he’s one of the best when he gets into the paint​

Boston Sports Journal BSJ Game Report: Celtics 110, Nuggets 103 - Horford, White, come up big to hold Denver off​

Al Horford keeps on coming up big in big moments for the Celtics​

Hardwood Houdini The Celtics beat the Nuggets because they didn’t care about Nikola Jokic​

Celtics waiving Anton Watson likely means more roster changes are on the way​

Celtics sign Miles Norris to two-way contract: Instant reaction & analysis​

CLNS Media/YouTube Joe Mazzulla on Nikola Jokic: “We didn’t talk about Jokic in the game plan” | Celtics vs Nuggets 3-2 ​

Derrick White: My Teams Confidence Allows Me to Make CLUTCH Shots | Celtics Nuggets Postgame ​

Jaylen Brown Says His Knee Was Bothering Him vs Nuggets | Celtics Postgame 3-2 ​

Al Horford Likes Competing w/ Nikola Jokic: “Probably the top player in our league” | Celtics 3-2​

Nikola Jokic Calls Jayson Tatum a SUPERSTAR | Nuggets vs Celtics Postgame 3-2 ​

Celtics Sign Miles Norris + Why Al Horford is the X-Factor | You Got Boston w/ Noa Dalzell​

Is Jayson Tatum Overlooked as the Face of NBA? | BIG 3 NBA Podcast​

Audacy Al Horford’s timeless impact leads Celtics over Nuggets​

Basketball Network Brown talks about constantly playing under scrutiny ​

Celtics Chronicle How the Celtics Won a Defensive Chess Battle Against The Nuggets​

Hardwood Heroics NBA News: Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown Makes Head-Turning Admission About His Knee After Sunday’s Win​

YouTube Are the Celtics back on track after a rough stretch? | NBA Countdown​

2 Minute Drill: The 3 Celtics’ players who shine under Coach Joe Mazzulla ​

Can the Celtics win a title without Jrue Holiday? | Jones & Keefe​

The Score NBA awards watch: Pistons, Cavs lead race for individual honors ​

Essentially Sports Nikola Jokic Clears Stance on MVP Rival Jayson Tatum as NBA Legend Makes Bold Comparison About Celtics Star ​

NBA Analysis Nikola Jokic gives his view on Jayson Tatum being the future face of the NBA, ‘I think he’s a…’​

Last Word on Sports Recent Jrue Holiday Injury Update is Concerning​

Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Seemed to Use JJ Redick Strategy on Nikola Jokic vs Nuggets​

Celtics Drop Draft Pick For Two-Way Contract Gamble​

SI .com Jaylen Brown’s Honest Statement After Celtics-Nuggets​

Celtics Jayson Tatum Enters Rare NBA History Alongside LeBron James, Wilt Chamberlain​

Gilbert Arenas Offers Simple Reason Why Celtics’ Jayson Tatum is Already ‘Face of NBA​

Celtics Surprisingly Waive 2024 NBA Draft Pick​

CBS 42 Jaylen Brown Roasts Al Horford After Passing Up Open Dunk​

USA Today Celtics are bored but still NBA’s team to beat over Thunder, Cavaliers​

Hoops Habit Surprising stats prove the surging Lakers are major threats to a Celtics repeat​

Stadium Rant Celtics Avoid Third-Straight Loss Behind Derrick White’s Clutch Performance ​

Barstool Sports Al Horford Is A True Gift From The Basketball Gods And Frankly Is Never Allowed To Retire ​

Hot New Hip Hop Jayson Tatum’s Latest Jordan Tatum 3 PE Honors Breast Cancer Awareness​

Sportskeeda Nikola Jokic: “Derrick white needs to cut his nail” - NBA fans erupt as Nikola Jokic bleeds heavily after nasty scratch in intense Celtics clash​

Heavy Celtics Veteran Jrue Holiday Drops Bad News on Return After Injury​

Chowder and Champions Celtics Have New Free Agent Target to Help with Playoff Push​

Hoops Rumors Jaden Springer Signs Three-Year Contract With Jazz​

Clutch Points Celtics star Jayson Tatum joins LeBron James, Wilt Chamberlain company​

Joe Mazzulla reveals bold Nikola Jokic gameplan after Celtics’ win vs. Nuggets​

Athlon Sports ESPN Makes Historic Jayson Tatum Announcement During Nuggets Game​

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/3/24377165/boston-celtics-daily-links-3-3-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Neemias Queta reflects on Joe Mazzulla’s tough coaching

Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images

Neemias Queta scored eight points, grabbed 10 rebounds and played a difficult defensive role against Denver on Sunday after not playing in five of the team’s last 12 games.

BOSTON — Neemias Queta walked into the Celtics’ facility to greet a room full of local kids from Project 351, an annual program that partners with the team for a forum on addressing topics like race, gender, religion, disability and orientation. Queta, who admitted he’s still not totally comfortable addressing a full room, told the story of how he started playing basketball, when he began believing in it as a career at age 17 and how he handles hate.

“It’s about being able to block out the noise,” Queta told them. “You know how many people watch the game, how many people enjoy watching the NBA or the Celtics, whatever it is? So you know you’re not gonna please everybody, you’re not perfect, so at the end of the day, you just gotta be able to embrace yourself and live with what you’re doing ... people are always gonna try and say anything about you, so find happiness ... for example, your family, the hobbies that you like to do. So I lean into what makes me happy more than anything.”

The Celtics’ two biggest stories early this season became Payton Pritchard’s emergence as the leading Sixth Man of the Year candidate and Queta starting five of the team’s first 16 games with Kristaps Porziņģis out. It had been roughly a year after Queta signed an unheralded two-way deal late in the 2023 summer. His offensive rebounding, help side defense and its positive impact on Boston’s struggling rim protection made him a valuable contributor.

Joe Mazzulla stressed consistency and competitiveness. He pulled Queta from his first career start in Atlanta quickly when he didn’t meet expectations.

Four months later, it’s easy to forget those contributions. Queta averaged 7.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 63.9% over a 15-game stretch during the opening month. However, since Porziņģis returned, his playing time fell to 12.0 minutes per night with 12 DNP-CDs and another 16 where he played fewer than 10 minutes, mostly in garbage time.

When he returned to the lineup for last week’s back-to-back, he had only logged rotation minutes in four of the previous 15 games stretching back to January. Queta produced mixed results, including a scoreless showing at Detroit after he missed the win over the Knicks on Sunday with an illness. Mazzulla didn’t play him at Cleveland on Friday, and on the following day assigned him, Xavier Tillman Sr. and Jordan Walsh to Maine Celtics practice at the Auerbach Center in Boston for additional reps.

“(I approached it) the same as always,” Queta said on Monday. “It’s a blessing to play basketball at the end of the day. I really just come in and do my job, whether I have to play or really don’t have to play, I just find happiness into it and try to make up for not playing in a harder workout, watching more film or being around family. Finding different ways to navigate that ... longer workouts or even just going down to Maine like we did and playing with the guys. I felt like that definitely helped me get back into my rhythm, especially after I was sick.”

Queta focused on cardio and positioning in the practice, finding the right places at the right time, and at other times during his layoff joined coaches in extra five-on-five scrimmages. He told CLNS Media/CelticsBlog earlier this season that his defensive adjustment to Boston’s system proved difficult. In the past, he played drop coverage and now shifts between various defensive looks as the defense’s anchor. That placed scrutiny on him from the coaching staff, along with the upside that he flashed in his best games early on.

Queta ranked high among the NBA players switching onto guards for the greatest percentage of their minutes. In a captivating moment, he held up against Steph Curry in a start against the Warriors. Mazzulla said earlier this season that Queta doesn’t know how good he can become, and that’s why he personally held him to a high standard. He repeated those comments about Queta’s high ceiling on Sunday after he made the most of 16 minutes against Denver, scoring eight points with 10 rebounds and an assist on 4-of-5 shooting.

Mazzulla also mentioned his belief that Queta would play backup center minutes on any other team. The Celtics won Queta’s minutes by 11 in a seven-point victory.

“He’s just very professional,” Al Horford said. “Neemy is sticking to his preparation, his routine. Even if he’s not playing, you see him here, same energy, working and just staying ready for the opportunities. Tonight, he was put in positions that could’ve gone the other way, but he was taking Michael Porter Jr.’s threes away at the three-point line at times. With Jamal (Murray), he did it as well. So him being able to defend the perimeter, protect the paint, get rebounds, just staying ready ... he was very big for us tonight.”

An impactful stretch early in the fourth saw him score four straight points for the Celtics inside. His offensive rebound two plays later set up Payton Pritchard for a second chance score to cap an 11-5 run and force a Denver timeout. One play prior on the defensive end, he and Jaylen Brown met De’Andre Jordan at the rim and rejected him.

Queta remains highly intriguing as an athletic, offensive rebounding and physical finishing force that no other player on the roster replicates. The Celtics signed him to a three-year contract last offseason, allowing for patience with his development ahead of another free agency for Luke Kornet, who’s mostly played ahead of Queta through his own stellar season. They’ve played together successfully in several games, despite neither spacing the floor, and though three centers stand in front of him in the rotation, he’s probably the best player outside of the team’s night-to-night rotation.

That’s why Mazzulla can’t stand when Queta lapses, like on consecutive pick-and-rolls against Jalen Duren at Detroit. Queta developed thick skin to the hard coaching, playing for tough mentors in the past, but the wrath he hears from the Celtics head coach is so much that he couldn’t repeat it.

“I don’t think you want to hear it,” Queta said with a smile on his face. “I just embrace it.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...out-return-nikola-jokic-nuggets-boston-denver

 

[Boston Celtics]

Miles Norris is really, really excited to be a Boston Celtic

Photo by Joe Murphy/NBAE via Getty Images

The Celtics newest two-way player was thrilled to sign his first NBA contract.

BRIGHTON — Miles Norris was on his way home from a G-League game in Santa Cruz when he got the call from his agent: the Celtics wanted to sign him as their third two-way player.

“He said, ‘Go home, pack up, be ready to go in the morning,’” Norris recalled, speaking to reporters for the first time as a Celtic. “I packed as much as I could. It’s good to be here.”

The call was a long time coming.

Miles Norris, who was undrafted, shared when he found out about his Celtics two-way contract:

“I was actually on the connecting flight back from Santa Cruz G League game. My agent called me real quick. He said, ‘Go home, pack up, be ready to go in the morning.” pic.twitter.com/YNCUZqNzBs

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) March 4, 2025​

Norris went undrafted in 2023 after a collegiate career that included stints in Oregon, CC of San Francisco, and UC Santa Barbara. He’s bounced around in the G League ever since, spending last season with the College Park Skyhawks, Atlanta’s G League affiliate, and this season with the Memphis Hustle.

On Monday, he toured the Auerbach Center for the first time and completed his physical. On Tuesday, he met Joe Mazzulla and the rest of the Celtics staff and players, joining the team for a morning film session that was enough to highlight that the Celtics were a winning organization.

“It seems like they are a really connected group,” Norris said. “I’m really excited to be a part of that. Some locker rooms are a little different. It seems like they have a really strong connection chemistry-wise and in the locker room.”

Norris has one pre-existing relationship with a veteran Celtic: Payton Pritchard, who he was teammates with his freshman year at Oregon in 2019.

The two got to briefly catch up on Tuesday morning.

“Payton’s a great guy,” Norris said. “It’s good to see him again, good to be back playing with him again after college. Small world. It’s like a full-circle moment for me and Payton.”

Norris is also familiar with Mazzulla, but in the very limited way that most people in the basketball world are — from seeing his viral press conference moments on Instagram.

“Some of the press conferences with him are pretty funny,” Norris said with a smile. “But he’s a good dude. An intense coach, but he also has a sense of humor to him, so I like that.”

Norris went to Brewster Academy for high school, which is a couple hours from Boston in New Hampshire. He’s been to Boston a few times, and said his early impressions were positive.

“I love the city of Boston,” Norris said. “I’ve been here a couple times. I’m gonna get used to the cold weather, though, because I’m a California guy, so gotta get used to the cold. But, I love it out here, so far – I love the people, coaching staff, the whole organization.”

Miles Norris is happy to be here:

“I love the city of Boston. I've been here a couple times. I'm gonna get used to the cold weather, though, because I'm a California guy… but, I love it out here, so far – I love the people, coaching staff, the whole organization.” pic.twitter.com/Vfkp2QCBd8

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) March 4, 2025​

What stood out to the Celtics about Miles Norris ​

Norris has had an outstanding year for the Hustle. He’s averaging 17.1 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists, while shooting 38.5% from three. Mazzulla said that Norris’s length, athleticism, and shooting ability all stood as the Celtics opted to sign him.

Mazzulla also said that his previous history of playing with Pritchard helped give the Celtics added confidence in the signing.

“If you know guys that know other guys and they can vouch for them, how they are, especially in the locker room, how they are outside of the floor, it definitely helps,” Mazzulla said.

Joe Mazzulla on why the Celtics signed Miles Norris:

“His length, his athleticism, he’s shown a decent ability to shoot the ball.”

Also adds that he’s someone Payton Pritchard vouched for as they were college teammates pic.twitter.com/xfrVsPUb7W

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) March 4, 2025​

Norris’s excitement was palpable during his brief conversation with reporters; in fact, he used the word “excited” 12 times in the 5-minute interview.

That excitement is understandable; this is the 24-year-old’s first time on a two-way contract, and it seems he could be a great fit.

Jon Rosen, who provides color commentary for the Hustle, told CelticsBlog he believes he will seamlessly integrate into the Celtics’ three-point-heavy offense.

“Miles is perfect for the Celtics,” Rosen said. “He is a shooter. He does show his athleticism every now and then and he will hammer one down, [he’s a] right-handed dunker... Miles Norris will absolutely shoot the cover off the ball, and he shoots it a ton.”

Most two-way players spend most of their time with the G League club, and it sounds like it’s up in the air for Norris right now. But, for a guy who didn’t hear his name on draft night, and has yet to sign a two-way, it was obvious this was a momumental moment.

“I’ve been playing well all season, just kind of sticking it out in the G League, waiting for my call — control what I can control,” Norris said. “But it’s really good to be here in Boston. Like I said, a winning culture. I’m just really excited to be part of this organization.”

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...itchard-g-league-maine-celtics-memphis-hustle

 

[Boston Celtics]

A goal for every rotation player down the stretch

Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images

With 21 games left before the playoffs, there’s still room to improve.

As we enter the season’s final quarter, the Celtics are 43-18, snug as a bug in the East’s second seed. Boston can’t catch Cleveland, and although they’re only three games ahead of New York for the second seed, they also have a significantly easier remaining schedule than the Knicks.

But that doesn’t mean the Celtics can afford to rest on their respective laurels. The end of the season provides time for every player to show progress; here’s what they should work on.

Jayson Tatum — Take it easy

Tatum had a blistering February, averaging 28 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 7.0 assists on strong 47/37/80 shooting splits. Before a rough performance against Denver to kick off March, he’d been playing as well as he had all season.

But I’m at least a little concerned about the tick-tocks he’s racked up. People love to poke fun at New York coach Tom Thibodeau for riding his starters into the ground. Well, Tatum has played the fifth-most minutes in the NBA this season, behind only three Knicks (who have played more games than Tatum) and Anthony Edwards, who is the Timberwolves’ sole reliable offensive engine.

That’s not the case with Tatum. While the Celtics are obviously better when Tatum plays, they still outscore teams by +7.6 points per 100 possessions without him. Give the man a break!

Luckily, the Celtics’ joke of a schedule will provide plenty of opportunities to rest, including back-to-backs against Brooklyn in mid-March and the season’s final two games in Boston against the Hornets. I hope Joe Mazzulla takes advantage of the schedule maker’s kindness.

Jaylen Brown — Stay in attack mode

Something I’ve liked about Jaylen Brown’s last two games: his determination to attack defenders and draw fouls. He’s tallied 19 free throw attempts in the last two games, one more than in his previous six games combined.

I’ve noted before that Brown’s dunk rate had noticeably declined this season, partially due to injuries, so watching him swat Zeke Nnaji aside like a seven-foot mosquito was reassuring.

Brown’s averaging a career-high in free throw attempts this season, partly to compensate for his jump-shot struggles to begin the season. I was a little worried that the recent return of his jumper might cause him to settle more often, but the last two games have set my mind at ease. Now, we need to see him carry that mentality through the rest of the season to stay sharp for the playoffs.

Derrick White — Keep that joy

White’s bizarre midseason slide, which coincided with Boston’s worst stretch of basketball in years, halted at the end of January after he rediscovered his joy.

“You have to go through that. I’m glad he went through it,” Mazzulla said. “It was important for his growth. It was important for us to see him struggle — because it shows how much we need him, and it’s important for him to fight for that confidence.”

There’s certainly no question that the Celtics need him to reach their peak — one could argue that he’s the team’s second-most-important player. White is happy once again, and Boston is rolling. They must ensure he stays that way, no matter what it takes. Playing time, shot attempts, a bowl of only shamrock-green M&Ms… if White names it, make it happen.

Jrue Holiday — Get used to the splint

Holiday will miss some time with a mallet finger, a small break on the tip of his pinky finger that prevents it from straightening and bending normally. This condition doesn’t usually need immediate surgery, but it will require playing in a splint for six weeks or more.

Holiday has already been struggling with his outside stroke, and it’s hard to imagine that adding a splint to the mix will improve it. But he will likely be wearing it into the playoffs, so he needs to develop some familiarity with his unwelcome new friend.

Kristaps Porzingis — Get healthy

This is a bit of a cop-out answer, but I’m unsure what else to say about the big man. He’s been injured, recovering, or sick for what feels like the entire season (has he really played 32 games?).

The Celtics proved their ceiling is mountaintop-high even without KP last season, but the road to the championship will almost certainly be steeper this year. Boston needs all hands on deck.

Payton Pritchard — Force the issue

Pritchard’s insane start to the season — 10 games of 15+ points in the season’s first 13 matches — set expectations high, but his moments of incandescence have flickered on and off like a faulty lightbulb in recent weeks.

He can still fill it up, but his big games are sandwiched by more forgettable performances. Part of it is that Pritchard hasn’t been hunting his shot quite as aggressively. While his shooting percentages remain stellar, his usage dropped from 18.9 to 16.9 when the calendar flipped (excluding garbage time). He’s certainly not passive, but he hasn’t been quite as aggressive getting up shots (partly because defenses have dialed in on him to a greater degree).

Pritchard is at his best when he’s got the blood-scent in his nostrils. He needs to rediscover that killer instinct.

Al Horford — You do you

What do you say about a 38-year-old who has consistently raised his game in the moments that matter most? Whatever you’re doing, Al, just keep on keepin’ on.

Sam Hauser — Tighten up on defense

Hauser’s defense has long been an underrated part of his game — he’s not making any All-Defensive Teams, but he’s stronger than virtually any other team’s weakest link.

This season, that hasn’t been the case. Unlike in previous years, Synergy grades Hauser’s isolation and pick-and-roll defense quite poorly. For a more holistic view, the Celtics as a whole defend far worse with Hauser on the court than off, the opposite of last season.

There’s more going on there than just Hauser — the team has spent parts of the season going through the motions on defense, and injuries have exposed some communication issues — but he has plenty of room to improve.

Luke Kornet — Demand the ball

Kornet sets big screens, rolls hard, defends well, possesses great hands, finishes strong, and makes the extra pass. Is it too much to expect his teammates to do the latter also?

This is a hyper-specific concern for a player who has exceeded expectations, but I wish teammates would stop looking off Kornet so much. He’s open under the hoop and on the roll a surprising amount but rarely gets rewarded. There’s room for at least one or two dump-offs more per game, particularly when Porzingis misses time.

Part of that is on Kornet, who seems far too willing to sit back and let others do the hard work. Make yourself a threat, Luke!

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...etch-boston-celtics-jaylen-brown-jayson-tatum

 

[Boston Celtics]

Pritchard and White combine for 84 points, Celtics beat Trail Blazers 128-118

Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Payton Pritchard and Derrick White have career shooting nights, fueling Boston to a big win over the young Portland Trail Blazers.

The Portland Trail Blazers visited TD Garden Wednesday night with the short-handed Celtics prevailing 128-118 as Payton Pritchard and Derrick White had career shooting nights in a must-watch performance.

Boston has been without Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Jrue Holiday (hand) for a few games, and Jayson Tatum was also ruled out prior to the tip. Sam Hauser, Al Horford, and Luke Kornet joined Jaylen Brown and White in the starting five.

Deni Avdija had a nice start to the game, hitting on two quick buckets and having 6 points in 5 minutes as the Trail Blazers jumped out to an early 10-8 lead. Horford and Kornet played a good two-man play straight out of Mazzulla’s timeout as the C’s leveled the score at 10 apiece.

The human heat check and Portland native, Payton Pritchard, went back-to-back on triples as he checked into the game with 6 points in his first 2 minutes as Boston took a 16-12 lead. Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson fueled a mini run for the road team as Boston couldn’t convert on multiple possessions to take back the lead 20-16.

Both teams trade buckets in an entertaining end to the first quarter. Derrick White and Payton Pritchard provided a spark for Boston, as they outscored the Blazers 15 to 6 to end the quarter 31-26. Boston had 6 first-quarter three-pointers, led by Pritchard with 4 out of 5, as the former Oregon Duck had 12 points.

Al Horford and Sam Hauser’s both scored their first three-pointers of the game as the second quarter started which saw Boston take a 41-34 lead. For Portland, Shaedon Sharpe and Jabari Walker also connected from three to take the lead back, 43-41. Jaylen Brown was having a rough night on the offensive end, shooting just 36 percent from the field and a pair of offensive charges.

Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
Derrick White had 24 points in the first half for Boston.

Derrick was certainly Boston’s best performer in the first half with 24 points, and his three consecutive triples saw the short-handed Celtics keep pace with the scrappy Blazers at 51 all. The crowd would erupt to end the half as Pritchard and White hit back-to-back three-pointers and took the lead. Pritchard and White’s shooting was a highlight of the half as the pair registered 11-19 from downtown.

Brown finally got going, with three straight baskets to end the half with 12 points as Boston led 66-55, with an 11-point lead. Al Horford was also good for the home team as he ended the half with 7 points, 4 assists and 4 rebounds.

Payton Pritchard hit on his first triple of the second half as Mazzulla injected him into the starting five in place of big man Luke Kornet. Brown converted on a pair of strong drives and Al Horford converted from three as the C’s extended the lead to 16 points, 76-60.

Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
Payton Pritchard was stellar on a career night.

The hot shooting continued for Boston as the third quarter progressed; White and Pritchard were outstanding for the home team. Pritchard recorded a season-high 8 three-pointers with a full quarter and a half to go in the game.

Jordan Walsh hit his first three-point attempt of the game, just his twelfth of the season, before Sam Hauser got going in the mid-range on a foul line jumper. Pritchard then burst into the lane for a layup and his 31st point of the night. He then ripped the nets on a pair of heat check three-pointers as the home crowd was delirious. Payton Pritchard’s career high shooting was the story of the third quarter as Boston’s lead increased to 20 points after three, 102-82.

Derrick White started off the fourth quarter dribbling down the court and launched a his own heat check, converting another triple for his eighth three-pointer and 32nd point. Pritchard and White would end the game going a mind-boggling 19-32 combined from three.

Both players smashed career records in shooting as Pritchard had 43 points and White had 41 points, the first time in Boston Celtics’ franchise history two players have 40 points in a game. In what would be a record breaking evening, this performance also marked the first time ever in NBA history that 2 teammates have ever made 9 three pointers in a single game.

Henderson, Camara and Simons kept the scoring going for Portland as the road team cut Boston’s 20 point lead in half with 3 minutes to go in the game. Credit the scrappy Blazers coming back though, although it would not be enough as they would run out of time.

Boston next host the Philadelphia 76ers tomorrow night, following the recent news that big man Joel Embiid is being shut down for the remainder of the season with persistent knee issues.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...n-celtics-beat-portland-trail-blazers-128-118

 

[Boston Celtics]

Parquet plays: the making of making history

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

The leading men in the Celtics 128-118 win over the Blazers were Derrick White and Payton Pritchard, but a lot happens behind the screens (pun intended).

Every Academy Award acceptance speech has many of the same elements: actors thank their parents, their family, their agents and managers, their directors, their co-stars, etc. Athletes are similar. After a big performance in a big game, they’ll credit their coaches and teammates, too.

After combining for 84 points and being the first Celtics duo to both score 40-plus in the same game, Derrick White (41 points, 9-for-17 from 3) and Payton Pritchard (43 points, 10-for-16) were modest with their career games, instead deflecting the attention and giving props to the team for a team win.

“Tonight could have been Sam Hauser’s night and he hits 10 to 15 threes. DWhite does what he does. JB could have 50,” Pritchard said after falling one short of tying Marcus Smart’s record for most triples in a game by a Celtic.

“I don’t go into any night thinking, ‘oh, it’s my night.’ You read the game and the ball ended up finding me. Next game, the ball might not find me at all, but how am I going to impact the game? That could be with rebounding, assists. Obviously, if I get shots, I gotta be ready to hit ‘em, but every night is a different look. You just gotta be prepared for it.”

White echoed those sentiments.

“Tonight was fun, but we know what the bigger picture is. We know what we’re working for and what we’re working towards,” White said. “It’s not about me. It will never be about me. Whatever the team needs, whatever it is that night, I gotta do it and help us win games.”

Humble responses from two team players that are likely on the short lists for individual awards at the end of the regular season (Sixth Man of the Year and All Defense respectively), but there’s no way around it — Pritchard and White couldn’t miss on Wednesday night.

What makes the accomplishment all the more remarkable is that it came against the Portland Trail Blazers — the young upstarts rank 4th in the league in opponents’ three-point field goal attempts a night (35.8). The Celtics, of course, by far put up the most in the NBA (48.1). Something had to give and even on a night when Boston was without Jayson Tatum, Kristaps Porzingis, and Jrue Holiday, they managed to get up 54 threes, 33 of them coming from Pritchard and White.

Some of them were certainly of the heat check variety. As a team, Boston is 256 three-pointers away with twenty games to go from tying the 2022-23 Golden State Warriors for most threes in a regular season. You don’t get near that record without a couple of three-point attempts taken to check the temperature of the room.

The others, however, were a product of Mazzulla Ball and to generate quality three-pointers, you need good shooters and space for those good shooters to get them up.

“Screen reads are important, regardless of who we’re playing against. You have to know what the coverage is and who’s there,” head coach Joe Mazzulla said. “The player development staff does a good job teaching that and the guys are dilligent about knowing what screen is needed. Usually, when you see a good possession, the right screen is set. When you see a bad one, we don’t set the right one.”

To start the second half, Mazzulla opted to swap out Luke Kornet for the hot-shooting Pritchard. Before halftime, the Celtics closed on a 24-8 run going away from their double-big look and opening the floor with perimeter players. With Donovan Clingan playing almost exclusively in drop coverage, Boston set their screens higher up on the floor to create even more space for Pritchard and White to work off the dribble.

Al Horford hit a pair of triples in the win, but his most effective role against the Blazers was neutralizing their athletic wing defenders with hard picks. Scoot Henderson is a strong, rugged defender, but a flip of Horford’s hips is enough to stop Scoot from scooting, giving Pritchard enough space to hit the pull-up three.

“I just make sure that my guy runs into the screen,” Pritchard said. “They’re unbelievable screen setters. They get you wide open. The job as a guard is to set your guy up, run him into it, and then make the right read after that.”

The Celtics are 7th in screen assisted points per game (21.8) with nearly all of Boston’s rotational big men averaging two screen assists per game.

Other threes came from more traditional sources. With Tatum on the shelf, Jaylen Brown took on more of a playmaker/attention getter/driver/post-upper role in the offense and led the team with eight assists.

“Everybody was just doing a great job of finding us and creating for us. I feel like JB found me so many times getting me good open looks on the right play,” White said. “Him and Al just setting great screens. It was just a whole team effort and they kind of all just combined to what we did.”

Goodnight from the fellas pic.twitter.com/VoifKB51DY

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 6, 2025​

So, while last night provided podium games and early showers for backcourt, both stressed that the most important thing was that the team got the win and that the team deserved their flowers, too.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...te-payton-pritchard-boston-celtics-al-horford

 

[Boston Celtics]

Tatum and the Stay Ready Group come up huge in Celtics 123-105 win over 76ers

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

With five players out for the Celtics, the bench showed up in dominant fashion

Coming off a historic win against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Celtics matched up against the Philadelphia 76ers on the second night of a back-to-back. Both teams were shorthanded in this matchup and it was the Celtics who came out on top 123-105.

Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 35 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals on 14-23 shooting. The Stay Ready Group came up huge for the Celtics as the bench scored 59 points led by Payton Pritchard (19 points), Baylor Scheierman, (15 points), and Torrey Craig (12 points).

With Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, and Kristaps Porzingis out, it was good to see everyone on the bench contribute in a meaningful way. The Celtics had a hot shooting night overall as they shot 50.5% from the field and 40% from three as a team.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

After a career-high 41 points on 9 three pointers the night before, Derrick White fittingly started the game with two more threes and 8 points in the first two minutes. Drew Peterson made his first career NBA start tonight and showed off his defense early as he forced a turnover and found Jayson Tatum for an easy basket.

Drew Peterson shows off his quick hands – gets the strip, then feeds Jayson Tatum for the fast-break dunk pic.twitter.com/ZWzTEdfkVM

— Taylor Snow (@taylorcsnow) March 7, 2025​

Just like White, after scoring a career high 43 points on 10 threes the game before, Payton Pritchard checked in and hit his first three, but the first quarter belonged to Jayson Tatum. Tatum tied his career high in first quarter scoring with 18 points on 8-10 shooting and just picked apart the 76ers defense.

Philadelphia tried to stay in the game as former training camp Celtic Lonnie Walker scored 9 points on 3-3 from three point range, but were still trailing Boston 35-24 at the end of the first. The Celtics shot an absurd 66.7% from the field and 45.5% from three in the first quarter, dominating the short handed 76ers.

Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images

Tatum started the second quarter, but it was Torrey Craig that led the Celtics offense as he scored Boston’s first 7 points of the quarter including a crazy put back dunk on a Neemias Queta miss.

What Scal said pic.twitter.com/NoaetWopz4

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 7, 2025​

Derrick White went back to the locker room mid-way through the second quarter after taking an elbow to the face from Kelly Oubre and it looked like he got another tooth knocked out.

It looks like poor Derrick White just lost another tooth pic.twitter.com/MuXvFp4K1t

— Danielle Hobeika (@DanielleHobeika) March 7, 2025​

With White out, it was Baylor Scheierman who stepped up in his place. He scored a career high 8 points in the second quarter and made a couple great hustle plays that led to second chance opportunities for the Celtics.

After a chaotic end to the quarter where both teams couldn’t grab a defensive rebound, Boston took a 64-46 lead into the break. Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals on 9-15 shooting at the half while Kelly Oubre and Lonnie Walker led the 76ers with 11 points.

Boston also got some big production from the stay ready group as the Celtics bench scored 29 points in the first half with the main contributors being Payton Pritchard (11 points), Torrey Craig (10 points) and Baylor Scheierman (8 points). The Celtics hot shooting continued in the second quarter as they finished the first half shooting 50% from the field and 41% from three.

Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images

There was good news for the Celtics to start the third quarter as Derrick White returned to the game after getting his tooth knocked out. Tatum picked up right where he left off at the end of the first half as he scored 8 of the Celtics first 12 points of the second half while Luke Kornet scored the other 4 points.

Kelly Oubre started to get the 76ers back in the game with 16 points in the third quarter and led Philadelphia on a 14-5 run to cut the Celtics lead to 10. Boston countered with a 10-2 run of their own to end the third quarter with a 97-79 lead.

Tatum scored 15 points in the third quarter to bring his total to 35 points and Baylor Scheierman knocked down another three for his first double digit scoring game of his NBA career. Kelly Oubre finished the third quarter with 27 points as the 76ers tried to make a comeback.

Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images

The Celtics started the fourth quarter on a 12-0 run including 6 straight points from Neemias Queta top open their lead to 28 points.

NEEMY RAMPAGE pic.twitter.com/WOwqsVPpAe

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 7, 2025​

The Celtics took out their starters when the lead hit 30 points as new two-way signing Miles Norris checked in for his NBA debut. Xavier Tillman played some solid minutes to end the fourth quarter as he put the game away for a Celtics victory.

The Celtics next game is on Saturday March 8th at 8:30 pm against LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...boston-celtics-123-105-win-philadelphia-76ers

 

[Boston Celtics]

In his first meaningful minutes, Baylor Scheierman stayed ready

David Butler II-Imagn Images

In a 30-minute appearance on Thursday, Baylor Scheierman had a career night against Philly, showcasing a versatile skillset on both ends of the floor

Meaningful minutes have been hard to come by for Baylor Scheierman in his rookie season.

There have been spot minutes within the rotation, particularly in the second half of the season, but those cameo appearances have done little to sell him as a ready-to-go rotation contributor.

It’s not uncommon to see a rookie in an already established ecosystem look entirely fearful of touching the ball or making a mistake. Jordan Walsh is an example close to home, but for a career 39% shooter across 162 games of college basketball, there was a little more hope that the rookie frights wouldn’t strike.

Against Philadelphia, that wasn’t the case. In a career-best performance, Scheierman finished with career-highs in minutes (30), points (15) and assists (3). It was also the fifth time he’s grabbed three rebounds and just his fourth game playing at least 10 minutes.

A performance like this is generally reserved for Game #82 of the regular season, a time for deep bench players to shine and gain confidence while the starters sit in preparation for the postseason. It was, instead, the same idea 19 games short of No. 82, with one playoff-bound team taking a cautious stance with its starters and the other fully embraced within its own last-minute tank. In the end, it was a huge help for players like Baylor, who Joe Mazzulla praised for an all-around performance after the game.

Joe Mazzulla loved what he saw out of Baylor Scheierman:

“He was great on both ends of the floor… another guy that, regardless of how well he shoots, is defined by the other stuff: the rebounding, the defense, the loose ball that he chased down, the charge that he took.” pic.twitter.com/yfH91Tmek3

— Noa Dalzell (@NoaDalzell) March 7, 2025​

Entering the game shooting 1-of-15 from three, Scheierman showed more confidence than he has all season, firing away with seven attempts from deep and connecting on three of those, including a corner triple in front of the Sixers bench that prompted a kiss in their direction as he waltzed back to the other end of the floor.

“Every time you shoot behind the [opposing] bench, they’re always saying, ‘Hell nah’ so I blew them a little kiss,” Scheierman said.

He’s hit nearly 41% of his 10-plus three-point attempts a night with Maine and shot 38% in his final season at Creighton, so it’s no surprise that after nearly a year in the bigs, he’d find his footing.

Last night also offered a smorgasbord of Scheierman’s potential as a scorer, defender and collector of Tommy Points.

Scheierman drilled his treys by placing himself in the right spot, keeping his hands ready and letting it fly when given the opportunity. Only on one of his makes (2Q, 6:31) did he actively take himself out of position, abandoning the strong-side corner as Payton Pritchard made his way across the baseline — although Torrey Craig was in the right spot, delivering the extra pass for Scheierman to hit from the wing.

We also saw his ability to create off the dribble. This was an area of Scheierman’s game that really stood out in his time at Creighton. While lacking much burst, he uses his size to shield off defenders to create space for himself, and has an effective pump-fake that punishes defenders closing out too hard. He utilized the fake twice last night, creating easy looks in the mid-range and at the hoop.

The trust Scheierman earned could be seen in the two ATOs called from the sideline that heavily involved the rookie within the flow of the action. After the game, Mazzula commented on how Scheierman “did things that impacted winning” when asked about his role within those ATOs.

Joe Mazzulla about running two ATO plays involving Baylor Scheierman: pic.twitter.com/2vX02Wel02

— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 7, 2025​

And maybe most importantly, his overall energy created opportunities for himself and others while limiting the offense of the Sixers. Philadelphia shot 2-of-6 with Scheierman as the primary defender, with defensive stops including a switch inside on Adem Bona, on off-ball closeout on Kelly Oubre Jr., and a screen-fighting contest on a Lonnie Walker three.

In the hustle category, a second quarter crash to the glass with a sharp kickout into the hands of Pritchard earned Boston an extra opportunity, while his biggest play of the game saw him read Oubre’s eyes after a three-point misfire and swiping the ball before it reached halfcourt, drawing a foul and earning himself a trip to the line.

Opportunities were created for Scheierman, but more importantly, he was creating them himself as well, leaving the game with a well-earned +18 in 30 minutes.

We may not see another 30-minute appearance from Scheierman before the final week of the regular season (or at least until the 2-seed is locked up), but with a real chance to showcase all of the things that made him a first round prospect in the first place, Scheierman took his opportunity and ran with it.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...eierman-stayed-ready-group-philadelphia-76ers

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/7/25

Evan Mobley vs Celtics 2/28/25 | Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images

All the Celtics news you need in one convenient place.

Herald Joe Mazzulla offers Kristaps Porzingis update as Celtics big man misses fourth straight game​

Derrick White loses tooth, rookie shines as depleted Celtics rout 76ers​

Why Baylor Scheierman blew kiss to 76ers bench in Celtics’ blowout win​

Globe Pritchard gives reasoning for not smashing Celtics’ 3-point record​

Tatum scores 35 to carry load for Celtics in 123-105 win over 76ers​

Tatum leads Celtics to easy win over banged-up Sixers: Takeaways​

Derrick White explains getting his teeth knocked out against Sixers​

Jayson Tatum’s fast start leads shorthanded Celtics past 76ers​

Celtics rookie Baylor Scheierman states his case for more minutes​

Derrick White really needs to go to the dentist​

Celtics-Lakers rivalry never gets old​

Court Sense: 40, 40, 40 ​

CelticsBlog Tatum and the Stay Ready Group come up huge in Celtics 123-105 win over 76ers ​

Parquet plays: how Jayson Tatum standing at halfcourt became a primary weapon vs. Philly ​

The Celtics-76ers game was a beautiful disaster​

In his first meaningful minutes, Baylor Scheierman stayed ready ​

10 takeaways from the Celtics outplaying the Sixers’ adjustments​

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side - 76ers 3/6/25 ​

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 123, 76ers 105 ​

Derrick White Gives New Meaning to ‘Glue’ Guy in Celtics’ Win Over 76ers ​

Photos: 76ers vs. Celtics – Mar. 6th, 2025 Photo Gallery​

NBC Sports Boston What happened to Derrick White’s teeth? Celtics star explains incident ​

Celtics-Sixers recap: Jayson Tatum, ‘Stay Ready Group’ shine in C’s win​

Celtics-Lakers matchup could reignite rivalry as an NBA Finals preview ​

CBS Boston There’s a lot more buzz around Celtics-Lakers now that Luka Doncic is part of the rivalry ​

NESN Why Payton Pritchard Didn’t Pursue Celtics Record In Career Performance​

Payton Pritchard’s Childhood Tie Made Career Feat More ‘Special’​

Celtics Rookie Capped Off Career Night With Aggressive Taunt​

Mass Live 4 takeaways as Celtics crush 76ers despite missing 3 starters ​

Boston Celtics forward describes thrill of NBA debut in 76ers win ​

Former Celtics guard describes vital lessons learned from Boston stint ​

Boston Celtics rookie reveals why he taunted 76ers bench amid career night​

Why Jayson Tatum doesn’t view Lakers as a Boston Celtics rival ​

The Athletic NBA Awards Watch: Should Kenny Atkinson or J.B. Bickerstaff be Coach of the Year? ​

Celtics stock report: Baylor Scheierman is the best of the bench ​

In NBA season’s final month, what are the stretch-run goals for all 30 teams? ​

Boston Sports Journal BSJ Game Report: Celtics 123, Sixers 105 - Tatum dominates, Scheierman shines off the bench​

Baylor Scheierman makes the most of his opportunity: ‘play loose, play free’​

Celtics Wire Celtics history: Boston champ Phillip born; Wilkins hits 25k points​

Can the Cavaliers dethrone the Celtics in the East playoffs?​

How Red Auerbach changed the Celtics forever​

The Celtics bench dropped xx as Boston beats Philly 123-105​

Tatum drops 35 as shorthanded Celtics beat shorthanded Sixers 123-105​

Celtics’ rookie Baylor Scheierman on why he blew a kiss at 76ers bench​

Are the Cavaliers better than the Celtics?​

Why Al Horford is the Celtics X factor​

Celtics jersey history No. 12 - Oshae Brissett (2023-24)​

Hardwood Houdini It took one half for Baylor Scheierman to get sicko Celtics fans excited​

The under-the-radar game plan that make Celtics threes less dangerous​

Derrick White gives new injury update after brutal tooth incident​

CLNS Media/YouTube Joe Mazzulla on the LAKERS Matchup this Saturday | Celtics Sixers Postgame 3-6 ​

Derrick White on Losing His Teeth Again, Says He Will Get It Fixed Tomorrow | Celtics Sixers Post ​

Baylor Scheierman Blew Kiss to Sixers Bench Because They Were TRASH TALKING | Postgame 3-6 ​

Jayson Tatum Does Not View Lakers as RIVALS: “We only play them twice” | Celtics Sixers Postgame​

SI .com Boston Celtics Star Loses Tooth Against 76ers​

Colin Cowherd Is Still Finding Ways to Belittle Jayson Tatum​

Barstool Sports The Hospital Celtics Went Belt To A** Again, This Time Burying The Process With Ease ​

Athlon Sports Reporter Hilariously Calls Out Jayson Tatum on Live TV for Celtics-Lakers Blunder​

Jayson Tatum Makes History in Celtics-76ers ​

Slam Online How Payton Pritchard Became the Celtics’ Surprise Spark ​

Lakeshow Life Mazzulla’s Luka Doncic comment may lull Lakers into false sense of security​

Sixers Wire 3 biggest takeaways for Sixers following latest road loss to Celtics​

Sir Charles in Charge Celtics’ Payton Pritchard may have the 2025 NBA’s Sixth MOY award locked up​

Essentially Sports Joe Mazzulla Clears Stance on Jayson Tatum’s Goals as Celtics Star’s Media Disrespect Continues​

Heavy Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Sends Message on LeBron James​

Liberty Ballers The lottery odds keep getting better as Sixers get destroyed by Celtics​

Rookie Wire Celtics news: Joe Mazzulla reacts to Baylor Scheierman’s career game​

Audacy How Jayson Tatum continues to set the standard​

Basketball Network Brian Windhorst: Payton Pritchard makes Boston hard to beat ​

NBC Sports Philly 3 observations after Sixers-Celtics season series ends with blowout Boston win ​

YouTube Why Jayson Tatum Can’t Win MVP — White & Pritchard’s Historic Night Explains It! ​

The Sports Hub Torrey Craig Joins Grande and Max 3-6-25​

Last Word on Sports Charles Barkley Goes Off on ESPN, Kendrick Perkins in Rant ​

Chowder and Champions Celtics Should Target Recently Available Free Agent Guard Before the Playoffs​

Celtics Rising Star Needs to Step Up His Game Ahead of Playoffs​

Hardwood Heroics NBA: The Celtics’ Brown v Tatum: Career Comparison​

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/7/24380250/boston-celtics-daily-links-3-7-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/8/25

Cade Cunningham vs Celtics 2/26/25 | Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images

All the Celtics news you need in one convenient place.

Herald Celtics-Lakers showdown now has look of potential NBA Finals preview​

Globe Mark Cuban sounds off on Luka Doncic trade: ‘Just get a better deal.’​

Celtics vs. Lakers preview: When LeBron and Luka are in town, you know it’s going to get interesting​

Greg Oden wants to educate young NBA players​

CelticsBlog How rest helped the Celtics solve one of their biggest weaknesses ​

Jrue Holiday’s health is non-negotiable for a championship repeat​

Normalize celebrating Jayson Tatum: a corny dad who supports women and plays the right way ​

Mazzulla-ball starts with defense​

Celtics .com 3/8 Game Preview: Lakers at Celtics ​

NBC Sports Boston How latest Celtics-Lakers game could revive NBA’s best rivalry ​

Mass Live Boston Celtics injury report: 3 rotation players listed for Lakers game ​

Lakers injury report: 4 starters listed for Celtics game Saturday​

The Athletic How to watch Lakers at Celtics, the NBA’s winningest franchises and 2025 title contenders ​

JJ Redick and Joe Mazzulla share a mutual respect as friends and as ‘basketball sickos’ ​

Boston Sports Journal Picks ‘n Pops: Rivalries, Hypocricy, and temporary teeth​

CLNS Media/YouTube Is Celtics vs Lakers a FINALS PREVIEW? | BIG 3 NBA Podcast​

How Payton Pritchard Can Carve Out Postseason Role w/ Jared Weiss | Celtics Beat ​

Celtics Wire Celtics jersey history No. 12 - Torrey Craig (2025)​

Rajon Rondo on his 2008 title with the Celtics​

Celtics history: KG scores 20,000 pts; Havlicek for 43; Barksdale dies​

Previewing the Celtics home tilt vs. the new-look Lakers​

If the Celtics could still make a trade right now, who would they deal?​

Derrick White no longer waiting to get permanent teeth​

SI .com NBA Scout Reveals Why Celtics Can Easily Beats Knicks in Possible Playoff Series​

Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Doesn’t Believe Lakers Should Be Considered Rivals​

Basketball Network Former ref tried to make amends after his NBA game-fixing scandal ​

Larry Bird feels 1980s Boston Celtics underachieved ​

Bleacher Report New Report Card Grades for Every NBA Team’s Rookie Class​

Hoops Rumors Atlantic Notes: Grimes, Celtics Bench, Thomas, Martin ​

Hoops Habit Phil Jackson’s ‘40-20 rule’ limits the league to three true contenders this season​

Athlon Sports NBA Makes Historic Jayson Tatum, LeBron James Post Before Lakers-Celtics ​

YouTube Can Baylor Scheierman be a Rotation Player for the C’s?​

The Playoffs Celtics vs. Lakers: Luka Doncic vs Jayson Tatum win-loss, head-to-head record, stats​

USA Today Lakers-Celtics: Luka Doncic gets first dose of classic rivalry​

Fadeaway World Colin Cowherd Dismisses Jayson Tatum As A Superstar, Calls Him ‘The Password’ For Being Forgettable​

Awful Announcing Jayson Tatum hilariously promos ABC’s NBA game during TNT interview​

Colin Cowherd doubles down on Jayson Tatum criticism: ‘He is commonly forgotten’​

Fox Sports Paul Pierce reacts to Jayson Tatum downplaying Boston Celtics-Los Angeles Lakers: ‘It will always be a rivalry’ ​

Our Sports Central Davison’s Triple-Double Lifts Maine Celtics ​

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/8/24380911/boston-celtics-daily-links-3-8-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Jays combine for 71 points, Celtics beat LA 111-101

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

Brown and Tatum come up huge in the latest chapter of the Celtics vs. Lakers rivalry.

Coming off of a win against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Celtics faced off against the Los Angeles Lakers in the latest chapter of their historic rivalry. This was the first game the Celtics faced the Lakers with Luka Doncic and just like the NBA Finals, Boston took care of business, winning 111-101 over LA.

Jayson Tatum led the way for the Celtics with 40 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists on 12-28 shooting while Jaylen Brown chipped in with 31 points and 6 rebounds on 13-25 shooting. Although Luka Doncic finished with 34 points, it was clear the Celtics were head and shoulders above the Lakers in this game.

Boston’s defense was the story of the night as they forced 9 steals and had 5 blocks against LA led by Al Horford who was the best defender on Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Their defense was at its peak in the third quarter when they held the Lakers to only 13 points in total. The Jays were able to attack Doncic on the offensive end and it looked really similar to the NBA Finals.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

The Lakers started the game on a 7-0 until the Celtics scored their first basket on a Jaylen Brown fadeaway. All five players on LA scored to open the game while it took Boston a little bit to get going after a 2-7 start.

Then the threes started falling for the Celtics midway through the first quarter as an 11-3 run was capped off by a Jaylen Brown steal on Luka Doncic leading to an Al Horford dunk, tied the game and forced the Lakers to call a timeout.

Jaylen owning Luka as always pic.twitter.com/aYQvoxWR5m

— Pull up shoot  (@NElGHT_) March 9, 2025​

The Celtics defense had Doncic struggling out of the timeout as a block by Payton Pritchard and steal by Al Horford on back to back plays led to easy baskets for Boston. After a chippy end to the quarter between Jordan Goodwin and Jayson Tatum as they jawed back and forth and both traded threes, the game was tied 33-33.

Brown (10 points) and Tatum (13 points) combined for 23 of the Celtics 33 points in the first quarter while Dorian Finney-Smith led the Lakers with 8 points. Boston shot really well in the first quarter going 54% from the field and 66.7% from three, but allowed LA to shoot 56.5% from the field and 50% from three.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

Both teams' defensive intensity started to ramp up to begin the second quarter as baskets were hard to come by. LeBron James and Jayson Tatum both made some spectacular plays midway through the second quarter but neither team was able to gain much momentum as the lead went back and forth.

Doncic started to get hot for the Lakers as he scored 7 straight points for the Lakers as Brown was struggling to get any calls --the most egregious being a play where Brown went up for a layup as Doncic threw his face into the play on defense. It was called an offense foul and even though it got overturned, Brown ended receiving a technical foul.

The Celtics are challenging this offensive foul called on Jaylen Brown pic.twitter.com/RYFUZroqAb

— Danielle Hobeika (@DanielleHobeika) March 9, 2025​

Boston started to find their offense again after the review, with a 10-2 run finished off by an emphatic Jayson Tatum slam at the buzzer, gave the Celtics a 58-54 lead going into halftime.

That’s how you close a half pic.twitter.com/2aK86oRdOJ

— Pull up shoot  (@NElGHT_) March 9, 2025​

Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 22 points on 8-16 shooting while LeBron James led the Lakers with 14 points. Jaylen Brown had 16 points on 7-15 shooting and played some incredible defense on Luka Doncic who finished with 11 points on 3-8 shooting.

The Celtics finished the first half shooting 48% from the field and 41% from three and forced 4 steals on the Lakers as their defense locked in. Al Horford played some great defense in the first half as on almost every possession he was getting switched on to LeBron.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

Brown and Tatum came out aggressive to start the third quarter as they attacked Doncic on defense on back to back plays as Boston continued to attack LA’s paint defense. The Celtics offense continued to click on all cylinders as they opened up a 19-2 run in the first 6 minutes of the quarter.

From the 2:16 mark of the second quarter to the 5:09 mark of the third quarter, the Celtics went on a 32-6 run as they opened up a 22-point lead on the Lakers.

THE CELTICS ARE CURRENTLY ON A 32-6 RUN

(via @realapp_) pic.twitter.com/IMI7aZeuVP

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 9, 2025​

The Celtics defense continued to be anchored by Al Horford as he clamped Luka Doncic on almost every possession. Horford’s energy on defense started to spread to the rest of the team as Jayson Tatum made an incredible block on Doncic as well as Payton Pritchard blocking Jordan Goodwin and forcing a charge on back to back plays.

JT said NAH pic.twitter.com/a66GW7Ee8k

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 9, 2025​

A deep three by Tatum at the end of the quarter made it a 20 point game going into the fourth quarter as the Celtics led the Lakers 87-67. Boston’s defense was suffocating in the third quarter as LA only scored 13 points. The Lakers were held to 5-23 shooting from the field and 1-10 shooting from three while the Celtics forced 6 turnovers.

JT side-step... CASH.

He's got 32p, 5 threes heading into the 4th on ABC! pic.twitter.com/KbsBW4Wk9B

— NBA (@NBA) March 9, 2025​

The Lakers started to chip away at the Celtics to begin the fourth quarter as they opened up a 16-2 run to cut the lead from 20 points to 7. Boston’s offense started to get cold at the worst possible time and turned the ball over which allowed LA to get back in the game.

LA continued to make shots out of a timeout and after a Dalton Knect three and Luke Doncic free throws, the Lakers cut the Celtics lead to 4 with five minuets left. Derrick White hit three free throws and Doncic hit another three in response. Jaylen Brown went down on the other end and splashed a deep three over Doncic to keep the Celtics lead afloat.

LeBron James was ruled out with a groin strain with three minutes to go as the Lakers were attempting a comeback. That is when the Jays started to take over as a Tatum three and Brown layup put the nails in the Lakers’ coffin and sealed a win for the Celtics.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

The Celtics next game is Monday March 12th against the Utah Jazz at 7:30 pm.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...t-la-lakers-111-101-jayson-tatum-jaylen-brown

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/9/25

Jayson Tatum vs Lakers 3/8/35 | Photo by Elsa/Getty Images

All the Celtics news you need in one convenient place.

Herald Celtics-Lakers lives up to Finals preview hype as Boston beats LA in thriller​

LeBron James injury: Lakers star offers update after leaving loss to Celtics​

Celtics in awe of Al Horford after standout game vs. LeBron James, Lakers​

Globe Jayson Tatum drops 40 as Celtics beat Lakers: Takeaways​

Celtics-Lakers lives up to the hype, Boston wins 111-101​

Celtics, Joe Mazzulla in awe of ‘old reliable’ Al Horford’s in win vs. Lakers​

‘We’re not where they are’: LeBron James, Lakers dismiss any long-term concerns following loss to Celtics​

Ex-Celtic Isaiah Thomas looking to get back to NBA​

How the Celtics beat the Lakers in potential NBA Finals preview​

Forget Joe Mazzulla’s demeanor. Celtics-Lakers was something special.​

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side - Lakers 3/8/25​

CelticsBlog Jays combine for 71 points, Celtics beat LA 111-101​

Al Horford delivered yet again​

Celtics’ top defenders marvel at Jaylen Brown’s defense: “I don’t do it as well as he does” ​

10 takeaways from the Celtics ending the Lakers’ win streak​

Celtics .com Photos: Lakers vs. Celtics - Mar. 8th, 2025 Photo Gallery ​

Keys to the Game: Celtics 111, Lakers 101 ​

Celtics Ride Tatum, Brown to 1st Win Over LeBron, Luka-Led Lakers ​

NESN Four Studs, One Dud As Celtics Best Lakers In Primetime Bout​

How Celtics, Lakers Can Deliver Another Star-Studded Rivalry Story​

NBC Sports Boston Al Horford earns huge praise for helping Celtics beat rival Lakers ​

Celtics-Lakers recap: Jayson Tatum’s 40 points leads C’s to 111-101 win ​

Best NBA duo? Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown shine as Celtics beat Lakers​

The Athletic Lakers’ LeBron James to miss 1-2 weeks after straining groin in loss to Celtics: Sources​

Jaylen Brown, Jayson Tatum embrace burden on offense and defense in win over Lakers ​

Mass Live 4 takeaways as Boston Celtics beat Lakers behind Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown ​

Jaylen Brown praises Lakers star after stout defense in Boston Celtics win ​

Boston Celtics coach explains crucial playoff practice in Lakers win​

Boston Celtics veteran uses Lakers tactics as fuel in statement win ​

JJ Redick gives bizarre reason for Lakers woes in Boston Celtics win ​

LeBron James injury: Lakers star to miss weeks after leaving Celtics win ​

Celtics Wire Paul Pierce on a potential Celtics - Lakers 2025 NBA Finals matchup​

Celtics jersey history No. 13 - Red Wallace (1946-47)​

Tatum and Brown go for 71, Celtics top Lebron and the Lakers 111-101​

Celtics Joe Mazzulla on Al Horford’s defense on LeBron and the Lakers​

What’s the story behind Red Auerbach’s Celtics victory cigar?​

Celtics history: Jones retired; Cs 1st team to win 60; Lovellette dies​

Celtics star Jaylen Brown debuts diamond-encrusted Timberland boots​

Boston Sports Journal BSJ Game Report: Celtics 111, Lakers 101 - Stars dominate, Horford steps up, in a big win​

Karalis: Boston’s killer whales were on the hunt against the Lakers, once again proving Boston owns mismatches against everyone​

Hardwood Houdini JJ Redick’s latest Joe Mazzulla story gives perfect inside look​

It only took one half for Jaylen Brown vs. Luka Doncic beef to reach new level​

This version of Celtics vs. Lakers changes everything: The best is back​

CLNS Media/YouTube Joe Mazulla: Jaylen Brown THRIVES Taking on Luka Doncic Matchup | Celtics vs Lakers Postgame 3-9 ​

Jaylen Brown Says ENERGY Was High for Lakers Game: “Shoutout to the Celtics fans.” | Postgame 3-9 ​

Jayson Tatum: “NBA’s a better place when the Lakers and Celtics are two of the best”​

Jrue Holiday on Jaylen Brown Guarding Luka: “It’s willpower ... You can see that JB has it.” | 3-9 ​

Al Horford on Showing Up for the Celtics BIGGEST Games | Postgame Interview 3-8 ​

Audacy Celtics-Lakers offers preview of NBA Finals possibility​

SB Nation The internet’s constant Jayson Tatum criticism is missing the point​

SI .com Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla Reveals Why Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown Played So Many Minutes​

Lakers News: JJ Redick Almost Joined Celtics Coaching Staff​

Barstool Sports Few Things In Life Bring More Joy Than Watching The Celtics Obliterate The Lakers ​

Silver Screen and Roll Grades for LeBron James, Luka Dončić in Lakers loss vs. Celtics​

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/9/24381603/boston-celtics-daily-links-3-9-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Join CelticsBlog Playback for Cavs-Bucks tonight

Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

We’ll be streaming the Cavs-Bucks game tonight. Do Celtics fans want the Cavs to win to ensure the Bucks stay in the 4th seed?

The Boston Celtics just put together maybe their signature win of the season. They played all the hits. The Jays went berserk. Al Horford reminded everyone he’s still one of the best defenders in the league. And of course, they beat LA.

Hop into the CelticsBlog Playback room tonight to watch the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Milwaukee Bucks, and chat some Lakers-Celtics.

Join the CelticsBlog Playback room here: https://www.playback.tv/celticsblog

Connect your League Pass, and you can join the live chat, hop on stage, and be part of the community.

Don’t forget that we stream most of the Celtics’ games live on Playback as well. Here are some highlights from the game against the Nuggets.

See you there!

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/celtics...leveland-cavaliers-vs-milwaukee-bucks-tonight

 

[Boston Celtics]

Utah Jazz (15-49) at Boston Celtics (46-18) Game #65 3/10/25

Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images

The Celtics look for their 5th straight win as they host the Utah Jazz.

The Celtics continue their home stand as they host the Utah Jazz for the first of 2 games between them this season. They will face off again in Utah on March 21. The Celtics won the series 2-0 last season. The Celtics are 62-46 overall, all time against the Jazz and they are 39-15 in games played in Boston. The Jazz are playing on the second night of back to back games, having played in Philadelphia on Sunday night.

The Jazz had a busy off season without doing a lot. They traded Kris Dunn to the Clippers for Russell Westbrook, who was then waived. They signed Drew Eubanks, Svi Mykhailiuk and Patty Mills and then traded Mills and Eubanks for Mo Bamba and PJ Tucker, both of whom were waived. They also waived Darius Bazley and Omer Yurtseven. Of course Danny Ainge got draft considerations in each of those deals. They signed draft pick Kyle Filipowski. They recently signed former Celtic Jaden Springer to a multiyear contract and they signed Anton Watson to a 10 day contract and then waived him. They also received draft picks for facilitating the Luka/AD trade.

The Celtics are 2nd in the East, and are 8 games behind the first place Cavaliers who have won their last 14 games, including a win over Boston. They are 5.5 games ahead of 3rd place New York, who lost to these Lakers in LA on Thursday. They are 9.5 games ahead of 4th place Milwaukee. The Celtics are 22-11 at home and 8-2 in their last 10 games. They are 14-7 against Western Conference opponents. The Celtics have won their last 4 games.

The Utah Jazz are 15th in the West, 38 games behind first place Oklahoma City. They are 1.5 games behind 14th place New Orleans and 12 games behind 13th place San Antonio. They have no hope of making the play-in as they are 16 games behind 10th place Dallas. The Jazz are 7-25 on the road and 2-8 in their last 10 games. They are 8-13 against Eastern Conference opponents. They have lost their last 5 games.

The Celtics are playing in the 6th game of a 7 game home stand. They lost the first game to the Cleveland Cavaliers and then beat the Denver Nuggets, Portland Trailblazers, 76ers and Lakers in the next 4 games. After this game against the Jazz, the Celtics will close out the home stand against Oklahoma City. After the 7 game home stand they play at Miami before a home and home set against Brooklyn. They then have a 6 game Western road trip through Utah, Portland, Sacramento, Phoenix, San Antonio and Memphis. They play 5 of their last 7 games at home.

Utah is playing in the 4th game of a 5 game road trip. They started the trip out with losses at Washington and Toronto before losing in Philadelphia on Sunday. They will finish the trip in Memphis on Wednesday. After a game at home against Toronto, they will play at Minnesota and then head home for a 6 game home stand against Chicago, Washington, Boston, Cleveland, Memphis and Houston. 6 of their last 8 games will be on the road.

As with most of the games recently, it’s hard to tell who will be out and who will play. The Celtics have 4 on the injury list as of now. After starting on Thursday, Drew Peterson is listed as out for this game due to a thigh injury. Kristaps Porzingis has gone through practice and warm up, but is doubtful for this game and will will likely a sixth straight game with an unknown illness.

Al Horford is questionable with a toe injury after playing 37 minutes on Saturday. Jayson Tatum played 45 minutes on Saturday and is questionable due to right knee tendinopathy. I’m going to guess that Luke Kornet starts at center but not sure who would start if Tatum doesn’t play. I wouldn’t be surprised to see other players pop up on the injury list at the last minute as well.

The Jazz had 9 players out for Wednesday’s game against the 76ers. These 9 are questionable for this game. Walker Kessler was out for rest due to playing back to back and will likely play in this game. Jordan Clarkson has missed 6 games with plantar fasciitis and is questionable for this game. Taylor Hendricks is out with a leg injury. Lauri Markkanen has missed 8 games with a back injury and is questionable.

Jaden Springer has missed 3 games and is questionable with a back injury. Oscar Tshiebwe is questionable with an illness. Collin Sexton is questionable due to ankle injury management. EJ Harkless is questionable with a groin injury. John Collins has missed 5 games and is questionable with a back injury. It’s hard to tell who will play and who will start for the Jazz. I’ve listed the starters from their game notes, but Kessler and Sexton are both questionable.

Probable Celtics Starters

PG: Jrue Holiday
SG: Derrick White
SF: Jaylen Brown
PF: Jayson Tatum
C: Luke Kornet

Celtics Reserves
Payton Pritchard
Neemias Queta
Baylor Scheierman
Jordan Walsh
Xavier Tillman
Sam Hauser
Torrey Craig

2 Way Players
JD Davison
Drew Peterson
Miles Norris

Injuries/Out
Drew Peterson (thigh) out
Kristaps Porzingis (illness) doubtful
Al Horford (toe) questionable
Jayson Tatum (knee) questionable

Head Coach
Joe Mazzulla

Probable Jazz Starters

PG: Isaiah Collier
SG: Collin Sexton
SF: Bruce Sensabaugh
PF: KJ Martin
C: Walker Kessler

Jazz Reserves
Kyle Filipowski
Keyonte George
Johnny Juzang
Svi Mykhailiuk
Cody Williams

Two-Way Players
Elijah Harkless
Micah Potter
Oscar Tshiebwe

Injuries/Out
Taylor Hendricks (leg) out
Jordan Clarkson (foot) questionable
John Collins (back) questionable
Lauri Markkanen (back) questionable
Jaden Springer (back) questionable
Oscar Tshiebwe (illness) questionable
Elijah Harkless (groin) questionable
Walker Kessler (rest) questionable
Collin Sexton (ankle) questionable

Head Coach
Will Hardy

Key Matchups

Derrick White vs Collin Sexton
Sexton is averaging 18.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. He is shooting 47.4% from the field and 40.3% from beyond the arc. This will be a good matchup assuming that both White and Sexton play in this one. If Sexton is out, Johnny Juzang may get the start in his place.

Luke Kornet vs Walker Kessler
Kessler has been one of the bright spots for the Jazz in an otherwise tough season. Kessler is averaging 11.6 points, 12.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 2.4 blocks per game. He is shooting 72.7% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. The Celtics need to keep Kessler off the boards and away from the paint.

Honorable Mention
Joe Mazzulla vs Will Hardy
Just 3 seasons ago, both Mazzulla and Hardy were assistant coaches to Ime Udoka in Boston. Both are now head coaches and among the youngest and brightest coaches in the league. Mazzulla has won the last 3 games between these two teams.

Keys to the Game
Defense - Defense is the key to winning each and every game. The Celtics are 5th in the league with a defensive rating of 110.1 while the Jazz are 29th with a defensive rating of 118.4. The Celtics are 6th in points per game with 117.0 while the Jazz are 19th with 112.4 points per game. The Jazz are 8th with 39.2 three pointers attempted per game so the Celtics need to play good perimeter defense. The Celtics must continue to make defense a priority in this, and every, game.

Rebound - Much of rebounding is effort and when the Celtics put out that effort on the boards, we see it in the other areas of their game. The Celtics are averaging 45.0 rebounds per game (11th) while the Jazz are averaging 45.9 rebounds per game, which is 4th in the league. The Jazz are 8th with 15.0 second chance points per game and the Celtics must have every player fight for rebounds to limit those 2nd chance points. If the Celtics want to win this game they need to crash the boards and out-rebound the Jazz.

Don’t Underestimate - The Jazz have been pretty bad this season and will likely be sitting key players once again. They have a lot of motivation to lose since they can’t make the play in and losing can improve their draft pick. However, never underestimate a team’s hatred of the Celtics. It seems that every team, even the tanking teams get up to play the Celtics and give it their best effort, especially young teams. I expect the Jazz to play hard and give it their best to try to beat the Celtics. The Celtics can’t take them for granted and need to come in with maximum effort for 48 minutes.

Be Aggressive - The Celtics must be the more aggressive team. They have to be aggressive in going to the basket, in diving for loose balls, and on defense. They have to aggressively crash the boards. They have to be the team that wants it more. In most of their losses, they have allowed their opponents to play harder and be more aggressive. They absolutely can’t let the Jazz play harder than them if they want to have a chance to win.

X-Factors
Home Court Advantage - The Celtics are home once again and they need to take pride in defending their home court. They have the crowd behind them and haven’t had to travel for awhile now. The Jazz are on the road for the 4th of 5 straight road games in the East. They have a hostile crowd and an unfamiliar court along with the distractions of travel.

Officiating - Officiating is always an x-factor. Will they let them play or will they call every ticky tack foul? Will they favor the home team or call it evenly? We never know what any given crew will do. The Celtics need to stay focused and not allow bad calls or lack of calls take away their focus on playing the game the right way.

And make sure to check out CelticsBlog’s Playback stream for a live conversation about the game. To participate, just create a free account, connect your LP sub if you have it, and join our community.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...15-49-at-boston-celtics-46-18-game-65-3-10-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Sam Hauser erupts in the third quarter, Celtics hold off Jazz’s late rally, win 114-108

Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

Two days after beating the Lakers, Sam Hauser and the Celtics caught fire in the third quarter, but needed to hold off a late Jazz comeback from 24 points down.

Riding a four-game win streak into a Monday night matchup with the Utah Jazz, the Celtics extended their win streak to five led by Sam Hauser’s explosive shooting display in a 114-108 win.

Boston (47-18) were led in scoring by Hauser with 33 points while the Utah Jazz (15-50) got 28 points from John Collins.

The Celtics were down two starters on Monday night, with Jayson Tatum (right knee tendinopathy) and Kristaps Porzingis (Illness) sitting along with Al Horford (toe sprain). Utah’s injury report was even longer, with seven players ruled out, including Lauri Markkanen (lower back), Jordan Clarkson (left plantar fasciitis) and Keyonte George (left foot contusion).

The Celtics rolled out a starting lineup featuring Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Sam Hauser, Jaylen Brown and Luke Kornet. It’s a lineup that hasn’t played a single minute together all season.

3-point makes were hard to come by in the first quarter, with Boston shooting 3-of-13 from beyond the arc and Utah shooting 1-of-9. Holiday hit Boston’s first triple from the left corner, finishing the quarter with a team-best seven points while Brown finished with six points and two assists, one of which was a no-look feed on the fast break to Kornet.

JB with the no-look to Luke pic.twitter.com/0qsStWNuUf

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 11, 2025​

The Celtics entered the second quarter up 25-24, maintaining that advantage into halftime with a 53-47 lead, thanks in large part to a monster performance from Derrick White. After just one shot attempt in the first quarter, White took over, shooting 5-of-7 for 13 points to lead the C’s into the break. His biggest moment came with under four minutes to go, sending Walker Kessler flying to the floor with a crossover stepback to knock down an open 3-pointer.

Derrick White sent Walker Kessler flying back to Utah pic.twitter.com/nRaClw6foC

— Ian Inangelo (@iinangelo) March 11, 2025​

Brown shot just 4-of-12 from the field in the first half, but finished on two layups late in the second quarter, one of which he converted into a 3-point play.

In the third quarter, the hot hand belonged to Hauser, who knocked down seven threes to help the Celtics extend the lead to as large as 24 points. Hauser, who shot 1-of-6 from the perimeter in the first half, was a scorching 7-of-10 from the 3-point line in the third quarter alone. He was one 3-pointer shy of an NBA record for threes in a quarter.

MAKE IT 7.

7 THREES IN THE 3RD QUARTER FOR SAM HAUSER https://t.co/CjdTAuVxzF pic.twitter.com/BQcfaUsRgD

— NBA (@NBA) March 11, 2025​

Trailing 90-69, Utah continued to fight, running off 11 straight points to cut Boston’s lead to 10 before Payton Pritchard temporarily silenced that momentum with a three and a layup. Utah then cut the deficit to nine after Brice Sensabaugh scored an and-one finish with seven minutes to go. Sensabaugh was instrumental to Utah’s comeback, scoring 17 fourth quarter points.

Utah tied the game at 103 with just over three minutes to play, but a free throw make from Brown and a corner triple from Holiday immediately pushed the Celtics back in front 107-103. With under two minutes to play, a sequence that saw Brown blow past Kessler for a huge dunk and Hauser walk into a transition three pushed Boston ahead by eight, allowing them to hold on for a close victory in clutch time.

Jaylen Brown caught a body on Kessler

The gravedigger pic.twitter.com/XOhpmCSD4b

— Pull up shoot  (@NElGHT_) March 11, 2025​

The Celtics have a nationally-televised battle of heavyweights coming up on Wednesday, March 12 when they host the OKC Thunder, who stand at the top of the Western Conference standings with a 53-11 record. That game starts at 7:30 p.m.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...quarter-boston-celtics-beat-utah-jazz-114-108

 

[Boston Celtics]

Boston Celtics Daily Links 3/11/25

Luka Doncic vs Celtics 3/8/25 | Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

All the Celtics news you need in one convenient place.

Herald Sam Hauser’s record-setting quarter powers Celtics to win over Jazz​

What Jaden Springer appreciated about trade from Celtics​

How Joe Mazzulla, Celtics players reacted to Kristaps Porzingis’ ‘viral illness’ update​

Globe Ex-Celtic Svi Mykhailiuk finally gets 2024 championship ring​

Kristaps Porzingis gives an update on his unidentified viral illness​

Hauser scores career-best 33 points as Celtics beat Jazz 114-108​

Kristaps Porzingis says he is recovering from a viral illness and getting better ​

Hauser scores 33 points to lead Celtics past Jazz​

Gary Washburn: Celtics-Jazz showed there’s lessons in a letdown game​

Court Sense: We’re not done talking Celtics-Lakers ​

Celtics Green Comments from the Other Side - Jazz 3/11/25​

CelticsBlog Parquet plays: Jaylen Brown’s target practice with Walker Kessler​

Svi Mykhailiuk recalls championship run with Celtics​

10 takeaways from the Celtics’ rollercoaster win over the Jazz ​

CLNS Media Jaylen Brown Powers Celtics to Win Even Without Jayson Tatum​

Celtics .com Keys to the Game: Celtics 114, Jazz 108 ​

Sam Hauser’s Record-Setting 3rd Quarter Helps Propel Celtics to 5th Straight Win ​

Photos: Jazz vs. Celtics - Mar. 10th, 2025 Photo Gallery​

NBC Sports Boston Best Al Horford stats from Celtics veteran’s big game vs. Lakers ​

‘Celtics City’ beyond the episode: Bill Russell makes history amid civil rights struggle ​

Celtics-Jazz recap: Sam Hauser shines as C’s survive Utah’s late surge​

NESN Three Studs, Three Duds As Unlikely Career Night Guides Celtics Past Jazz​

Celtics’ Kristaps Porzingis Unveils Mysterious Reason Behind Absence​

Mass Live Jaden Springer reveals classy Brad Stevens gesture before Boston Celtics trade​

Sam Hauser sets new Boston Celtics record in Jazz win ​

4 takeaways as Boston Celtics beat Jazz after historic performance​

Former Boston Celtics champion reflects on title year, ‘a lot of winning’​

Basketball greatness and volatile 1960s collide in Celtics City Ep. 2​

Celtics coach gives update on Kristaps Porzingis illness condition ​

The Athletic Opposing coaches have no good choices in stopping the Celtics’ 3-point onslaught ​

NBA Power Rankings: Nuggets rise, Knicks fall as we assign third-quarter grades ​

Celtics-Lakers draws largest non-Christmas regular-season audience in 7 years ​

Celtics Wire Has Payton Pritchard locked up the 2025 6th Man of the Year award?​

What was it like making the new Boston docuseries, “Celtics City”?​

Celtics jersey history No. 13 - Brady Walker (1949-51)​

Celtics’ Kristaps Porzingis outlines mystery illness on social media​

Sam Hauser’s leads Celtics over Jazz for fifth straight win​

Get to know new Celtics reserve wing Torrey Craig​

Could we realistically see a Celtics - Lakers NBA finals this season?​

Celtics history: Pandemic began; Russell’s 49 boards; Potapenko trade​

On awards Boston might win (and fake ones they should) with Chris Forsberg​

Boston Sports Journal BSJ Game Report: Celtics 114, Jazz 108 - Sam Hauser’s career night almost spoiled by Utah comeback​

Sam Hauser overcomes cold start against Utah to join Boston’s rapidly growing career-night club​

Hardwood Houdini Kristaps Porzingis just gave illness update Celtics fans have begged for​

Jaylen Brown was the difference between Celtics catastrophy and relief​

Sam Hauser just helped the Celtics make even more NBA history​

CLNS Media/YouTube Svi Mykhailiuk on Return to Boston and Receiving Championship Ring | Celtics vs Jazz Pregame 3-10 ​

Jaden Springer: Brad Stevens Gave Me Heads Up About Trade | Celtics vs Jazz Pregame 3-10 ​

Joe Mazzulla on Sam Hauser BREAKING Celtics Franchise Record in Threes in a Quarter ​

Sam Hauser on CAREER NIGHT vs Jazz | Celtics Postgame 3-10 ​

Jaylen Brown: This Celtics Team is BETTER than Last Years | Postgame 3-10 ​

Derrick White Gives Update on His Teeth | Celtics vs Jazz Postgame 3-10 ​

The Ringer The NBA Is Desperately Missing a Voice Like Bill Russell’s​

Sportico Boston Celtics Sale Bids Due Friday as Pagliuca, Others Mull Offers​

The Sports Hub Sam Hauser Joins Grande and Max 3-10-25​

Game 65 Highlights vs the Utah Jazz 3-10-25​

Last Word on Sports The Celtics’ Bench is a Hidden Strength​

Barstool Sports The Hospital Celtics Did It Again, This Time Giving Us Some Franchise History And An Unnecessary Heart Attack All At The Same Time ​

SI .com Utah Jazz’s Playoff Fate Sealed After Loss vs. Boston Celtics​

Celtics News: Jayson Tatum Surprises Al Horford With Custom-Made Gators Sneakers​

SLC Dunk Utah Jazz recap and final score: A wild ending in Boston​

Essentially Sports Jaylen Brown Sends Scary Warning to 4 NBA Teams as Locker Room Mentality Revealed Ahead of Playoffs ​

Joe Mazzulla Confirms Safety Measures for Kristaps Porzingis After Unidentified Illness Hurts Celtics Star’s NBA Future​

The Big Lead Jayson Tatum clears stance on his ‘The Anomaly’ nickname​

ESPN Sam Hauser becomes 4th Celtics player with 9 3s in a game as Boston keeps shooting from deep​

Fox Sports Oklahoma City puts road win streak on the line against Boston ​

Motorcycle Sports Celtics face crucial challenge as Joe Mazzulla navigates injuries and rests stars with playoffs on the horizon​

‘Athlon Sports Jaylen Brown Fires Confident Take About Celtics After Fifth Straight Win​

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/11/24383482/boston-celtics-daily-links-3-11-25

 

[Boston Celtics]

Luke the Kornector: the art of spacing without shooting

Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images

The Celtics’ big man isn’t stretching the floor with three-pointers, but his impact on offensive spacing is undeniable. Through smart passing, timely screens, and constant movement, Kornet keeps the defense shifting and opens up scoring opportunities for his teammates.

We’ve arrived at a certain point in basketball evolution where observers start to think a player who cannot shoot from three has a negative impact on a team’s offensive performance. We are still in the middle of the spaced-out era and the ability to generate spacing for your teammates has become the key to keeping your job in the NBA.

While the modern white-collar worker must learn how to use AI, the contemporary basketball player has to learn how to shoot… unless he finds another way to amplify the spacing. “Amplify” suggest some spacing already exists, meaning the player we will look at today doesn’t have to create the space himself but must ensure he keeps it alive. These players are called connectors, and Luke Kornet is one of them.

Luke the Kornector​

Let’s break down a play step-by-step to understand why Luke Kornet connects but doesn’t create and why this remains very important and doable without being a shooting threat. The play below is a high pick-and-roll. “High” because the screen comes at the logo, and “pick-and-roll” because, well, Luke sets a pick and rolls to the basket. At first glance, before the pick occurs, no gap or space is created, and we have a five-on-five situation.

Because of Jayson Tatum’s scoring gravity, the Sixers keep two players on him in these actions to force him to give up the ball. Thanks to that, a gap is now created, and the Celtics have an advantage — they have space. Behind the two defenders on Tatum, there is a four-on-three situation that a connector like Kornet can exploit.

Now, because the defense always reacts to such a situation, the space is constantly shifting. Defenders act like magnets. So, even if Luke Kornet isn’t much of a scoring threat, Yabusele moves up to him, leading to help from the corners to close access to the rim.

Nonetheless, as fast as defenders move, the ball moves even faster thanks to a connector like Kornet. The Celtics center excels at finding the open man, even in tight spaces. Here, he plays quickly to get Derrick White to the dunker spot. But note that if D-White had been covered, Kornet would have found Payton Pritchard in the corner.

Indeed, 64% of Luke Kornet’s assists result in three-pointers, showing that he can also find open men beyond the arc.

Step by step with screenshots, the action may look slow and easy to read, so here’s the video:

Luke Kornet has always been a player with a passing tendency. However, this season, his passing has been elite among NBA big men. His playmaking ratio (assist rate divided by usage rate) has been above the 90th percentile all season.

More than an individual improvement, this demonstrates a clear intention from the coaching staff to involve Kornet more in offensive creation, leveraging his passing ability and court vision as a connector. To better understand how the 7’1” center is used in the offense this season, let’s examine some of the plays the coaching staff runs with him.

Celtics playbook with Luke​

Here’s the most basic playcall involving Luke Kornet: the pick-and-roll. The goal of this approach is to give Jayson Tatum an easy passing option when defenses pressure him with aggressive coverage. Below is another example of Kornet’s short-roll passing against Denver’s defensive coverage:

Another offensive movement featuring Luke Kornet is the Grenade action. This action shifts the ball from one side of the court to the other to break the defensive shell. Below is an example from the Nuggets game. When Kornet received the ball, he was alone and immediately went into a dribble handoff with Sam Hauser, who ran from the corner to the ball. That’s the Grenade action.

Despite not being a shooter, Luke Kornet amplifies perimeter chaos with the ball in his hands. Because his screen creates so much space for Hauser, Denver must help on the handoff, keeping the Celtics’ advantage alive. Hauser finds Kornet on the roll, and Kornet delivers another nice assist to Horford at the rim.

As you see, Kornet can be used far from the paint with the ball in his hands. Another offensive design that exploits his passing and court vision is in Horns sets. In these sets, Kornet gets the ball at the top of the key and acts as a quarterback, waiting for an open route before making the pass.

What makes him special is his ability to adapt on the go. In the following example, when nothing materializes from Horns, Kornet dribbles toward Jaylen Brown to initiate a new action: an empty-side handoff. This creates space because of the Clippers’ aggressive defensive coverage, and on the short roll Kornet finds White open beyond the arc.

Because Kornet can handle the ball and read plays, the Celtics also integrate him into Zoom actions. A Zoom action is a basic movement where an off-ball player runs from one side to the ball and goes through two screens; an initial off-ball screen followed by a screen hidden within a handoff. Since Kornet is such a good screener, this second screen generates gaps, allowing him to find an open man.

His willingness to share the ball is also valuable from the post-up position. When he posts up, Celtics players know they can move and potentially be found by Kornet if they get open. As a result, when he is in the post, the Celtics start running off-ball actions, creating chaos and easy shots.

One last action worth highlighting is the Gator action, a play frequently used by the Florida Gators with Al Horford and Joakim Noah during their NCAA dominance. This play demonstrates that Kornet can be used offensively alongside another big. Instead of passing directly to the roll man, the ball-handler sends it to another big at the top of the key, who then finds the roll man from a different angle.

The devil is in the details, and Luke Kornet knows it. Kornet manipulate the defense with his eyes, like elite playmakers do:

Currently working on a piece about Luke Kornet's offensive role for the @celticsblog and came accros this play.

Grenade action, the defense shrinks around him on the short-roll. He has to pass to one of the open shooters, and tricks Fontecchio with his eyes.

Luke the Kornector? pic.twitter.com/Tc8NaRtr3d

— azmatlanba (@azmatlanba) March 10, 2025​

These examples show that, despite being a non-shooter, Luke Kornet can be impactful on the perimeter and keep the offense flowing. When he is on the court, the Celtics’ rim frequency and accuracy do not decline, a strong indicator that he doesn’t hinder their spacing. Even better, when Kornet plays, the Celtics grab an offensive rebound on one out of every three missed shots, which lead to rim attempts, too.

His ability to generate extra opportunities through offensive rebounding, passing from the perimeter, and creating gaps with screens produces significant rim pressure for the Celtics, confirming the initial belief that Luke Kornet provides spacing without shooting.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...nector-boston-celtics-offense-spacing-passing

 

[Boston Celtics]

Oklahoma City Thunder (53-12) at Boston Celtics (47-18) Game #66 3/12/25

Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images

The Celtics finish their 7 game home stand with a possible Finals preview and a visit from the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Celtics complete their 7 game home stand as they host the Oklahoma City Thunder in what may be a Finals preview. This is the second, and final, regular season game between these two teams. The Celtics lost 105-92 in Oklahoma City on January 5. The Celtics were held to just 27 points in the second half in that game. They tied the series 1-1 last season, with each team winning at home. The Celtics are 79-67 overall all time against the Thunder and they are 40-29 in games played in Boston.

The Thunder made several key moves in the off season. The biggest move may have been signing Isaiah Hartenstein away from the NY Knicks. He has especially been important due to the absence of Chet Holmgren. They also traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso. They drafted Nikola Topic, who will miss the entire season with a torn ACL. They also drafted Dillon Jones and Ajay Mitchell, with an eye to the future. Finally, they signed undrafted Alex Ducas to a 2 way contract.

At the trade deadline, the Thunder made minor moves and kept their core players the same. Most of their moves revolved around draft pick management. They traded cash considerations to New Orleans for Daniel Theis and a 2nd round pick. Theis was then waived by the Thunder. They converted Ajay Mitchell from a two-way to a standard deal. Finally, Branden Carlson was signed to a 2 way contract.

The Celtics are 2nd in the East, and are 8 games behind the first place Cavaliers who have won their last 15 games, including a win over Boston. They are 5.5 games ahead of 3rd place New York and they are 10.5 games ahead of 4th place Milwaukee. The Celtics are 23-11 at home and 8-2 in their last 10 games. They are 15-7 against Western Conference opponents. The Celtics have won their last 5 games.

The Thunder are 1st in the Western Conference. They are 11 games ahead of second place Denver. They are 12 games ahead of both the 3rd place Los Angeles Lakers and 4th place Memphis. The Thunder are 24-7 on the road and 8-2 in their last 10 games. They are 21-1 against Eastern Conference opponents, with their only loss coming against Cleveland. They are coming off a loss to Denver in their last game after having won their previous 7 games.

The Celtics are playing in the final game of a 7 game home stand. They lost the first game to the Cleveland Cavaliers and then beat the Denver Nuggets, Portland Trailblazers, 76ers, Lakers and Jazz in the next 5 games. After this game against Oklahoma City, the Celtics will play at Miami before a home and home set against Brooklyn. They then have a 6 game Western road trip through Utah, Portland, Sacramento, Phoenix, San Antonio and Memphis. They play 5 of their last 7 games at home.

The Thunder are coming off back to back games at home against Denver where they won the first game and lost the second. This is the first game of a 3 game road trip that will continue through Detroit and Milwaukee. They will return home for 2 games against Philadelphia and Charlotte before playing the Clippers and Kings on the road. They then have a 4 game home stand against Memphis, Indians, Chicago and Detroit. They have 4 of their last 6 games on the road with both of the home games against the Lakers.

After missing Monday’s game, Al Horford has been cleared to play in this game and is expected to play. Jaylen Brown has been dealing with knee soreness but is listed as probable for this game. Jayson Tatum missed Monday’s game due to right knee tendinopathy and is listed as questionable for this game. I’m going to guess that he will play. Kristaps Porzingis has missed the last 7 games due to a viral illness and is questionable for this game as well.

The Thunder will be missing a key starter as well. Jaylen Williams, who is the Thunder’s second leading scorer, left Monday’s game in the 2nd quarter with a right hip strain. He has been ruled out for this game. Ajay Mitchell has been sidelined since early January after suffering a sprain of his right big toe and having surgery and he is out for this game. Nikola Topic is out for the season after knee surgery. Alex Caruso was a late addition to the injury list and is questionable with an illness.

Probable Celtics Starters

PG: Jrue Holiday
SG: Derrick White
SF: Jaylen Brown
PF: Jayson Tatum
C: Al Horford

Celtics Reserves
Payton Pritchard
Neemias Queta
Luke Kornet
Baylor Scheierman
Jordan Walsh
Xavier Tillman
Sam Hauser
Torrey Craig

2 Way Players
JD Davison
Drew Peterson
Miles Norris

Injuries/Out
Drew Peterson (thigh) questionable
Kristaps Porzingis (illness) questionable
Jayson Tatum (knee) questionable
Jaylen Brown (knee) probable

Head Coach
Joe Mazzulla

Probable Thunder Starters

PG: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
SG: Cason Wallace
SF: Lugentz Dort
PF: Chet Holmgren
C: Isaiah Hartenstein

Thunder Reserves
Ousmane Dieng
Isaiah Joe
Dillon Jones
Aaron Wiggins
Jaylin Williams
Kenrich Williams

2 Way Players
Alex Ducas
Adam Flagler
Branden Carlson

Injuries/Out
Ajay Mitchell (toe) out
Nikola Topic (knee) out
Jalen Williams (hip) out
Alex Caruso (illness) questionable

Head Coach
Mark Daigneault

Key Matchups

Jrue Holiday vs Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging 32.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.8 steals and 1.1 blocks per game. He is shooting 52.5% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc. In the first game in OKC, SGA finished with 33 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks while shooting 47.8% from the field and 50% on threes. Gilgeous-Alexander is the favorite in the MVP race and is the key to the Thunder’s winning ways. In order to slow the Thunder, the Celtics must slow down SGA.

Jayson Tatum vs Chet Holmgren
Holmgren is averaging 14.6 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 2 blocks per game. He is shooting 48.8% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. Holmgren can score both in the paint and on the perimeter and so the Celtics must stay with him on defense whether he is in the paint or on the perimeter. Jayson Tatum has been playing very well recently and hopefully he will be able to play in this game and will continue his strong play.

Honorable Mention
Al Horford vs Isaiah Hartenstein
Hartenstein is averaging 11.1 points, 11.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game. He is shooting 59.1% from the field and 0% from beyond the arc. He is a threat to score inside and is a very good rebounder and shot blocker. The Celtics need to keep him out of the paint and away from the rim.

Keys to the Game
Defense - Defense is always a key to winning. The Thunder average 119.7 points per game (4th) The Celtics average 116.9 points per game (7th). This is going to be a tough matchup for the Celtics as the Thunder are first in the league with a defensive rating of 106.1 while the Celtics are 5th with a defensive rating of 110.1. The Celtics need to tighten up their defense and make playing defense a priority especially against this Thunder team that plays lock down defense. The Celtics need to especially defend the paint since the Thunder are 8th in the league with 51 points in the paint per game. But, they also can’t leave them open on the perimeter since they attempt 39.1 threes per game and make 36.7% of them as a team.

Rebound - Rebounding is also a big key to winning. The Celtics need to rebound on the defensive end to keep the Thunder from getting second chance points and they need to rebound on the offensive end to give themselves extra possessions. The Thunder are 13th with 44.7 rebounds per game while the Celtics are 10th with 45.0 rebounds per game. The Celtics are 29-5 when they out-rebound opponents and they are 18-13 when they are out-rebounded. Much of rebounding is desire and effort and the Celtics as a team have to put in the extra effort to grab rebounds.

Take Care of the Ball - The Celtics need to keep their focus and not turn the ball over. The Thunder are 1st in the league with 22.1 points off turnovers per game. They are also 1st with 10.7 steals per game. The Celtics have to move the ball because they are a much better team when they move the ball and don’t over dribble. But they must focus and make careful passes and not get sloppy. They also have to be aware when dribbling the ball so as not to allow the Thunder to get steals. The Thunder will make them pay if they get sloppy and turn the ball over.

Be Focused and Ready for a Tough Game - The Thunder have lost just one game to an Eastern Conference team this season. They have also only lost 12 games. The Celtics have to be ready to go to the basket if they struggle from three. They also have to be ready to shoot from midrange if both the paint and the perimeter are defended tightly. The Celtics must stay focused on playing hard for 48 minutes and on playing tough defense and on playing the right way.

X-Factors
At Home vs Road Fatigue - The Celtics are at home and they should get motivation from playing in front of their fans. The Celtics have been at home for the past 6 games and should be refreshed from the long home stand. The Thunder are on the road and are playing in the 3rd game in 4 nights and so fatigue may be a factor for them down the stretch.

Officiating - Officiating is always an x-factor. How the refs call the game has a big influence on how the teams play. Will they let them play or call every little bit of contact? Will they call it evenly or will they favor one team or the other. It all effects the outcome of the game and the Celtics need to play the right way and not allow the officiating to take them out of their game. Also, they should never be caught complaining to the refs while the other team goes in for a score.

And make sure to check out CelticsBlog’s Playback stream for a live conversation about the game. To participate, just create a free account, connect your LP sub if you have it, and join our community.

Source: https://www.celticsblog.com/2025/3/...53-12-at-boston-celtics-47-18-game-66-3-12-25